Illinois Basketball: Three improvements the Illini must make

Illinois basketball faced a tough challenge in their road matchup against #8 ranked Alabama, and while their offense kept them competitive, their defense ultimately faltered in a high-scoring 100-87 loss. Let’s break down some key takeaways from this game:

1) Team Defense

Incredibly impressed with Illinois’ overall skill level and its troika of freshmen — Kasparas Jakucionis, Will Riley, and Tomislav Ivisic.

But the Illini need their upperclassmen to do more.

And their defense and rim protection must improve.

This is ONLY November. https://t.co/ro14tfzZUJ

— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) November 21, 2024

The Illini’s defense struggled against a potent Alabama offense, which ranks third in offensive efficiency according to KenPom. The Crimson Tide’s fast pace, skilled shooters, and ability to finish inside put significant pressure on Illinois’ defense throughout the game.  Despite some positive individual performances, Illinois couldn’t keep up with Alabama’s ball movement or match their intensity on the defensive end, leading to open looks and easy baskets.

A key area to address moving forward will be tightening up defensive rotations, improving perimeter defense, and limiting fast-break opportunities. With their drop coverage, it is difficult to close out on stretch-bigs like Grant Nelson.

2) Play with synchrony; Limit turnovers

Kasparas Jakucionis was everywhere tonight in a loss to #8 Alabama:

– 15 points
– 4 rebounds
– 6 assists
– 2 steals
– 6/13 FG
– 1/3 3PT
– 29 minutes

Is he the best point guard in the 2025 class? 🧐 pic.twitter.com/QazQKsQgVp

— Draftstack (@TheDraftstack) November 21, 2024

Jakucionis was a big part of the Illini offense scoring 87 points in this one. He finished with 15 points, six assists, and four rebounds. It was great to see him be more aggressive in shooting the ball. Unfortunately for the second game in a row, he struggled with turnovers. Kasparas had six turnovers on the night which makes for 11 in his last two games.

Kasparas is always going to be a high-turnover player because of his high usage rate. For Jakucionis to improve, it will be crucial for him to focus on ball security and be more composed in key moments. Turnovers can be especially detrimental against a team like Alabama that thrives in transition, and cutting down on these mistakes could make a huge difference in future matchups.

Also, dare I say this team needs to make their dang free throws.

3) Continue to improve and find an identity

Learn and grow.#Illini | #HTTO | #EveryDayGuys pic.twitter.com/nCfOvFTpmy

— Illinois Men’s Basketball (@IlliniMBB) November 21, 2024

Despite the loss, this game against Alabama was a valuable test for a young Illinois squad. As referenced by Armchair Illini on X, Alabama started the season off 6-5 with a relatively new roster and tough non-conference schedule. The team found their rhythm during conference play and ended up in the final four.

While the result wasn’t ideal, Illinois can take away key lessons from this matchup. They need to tighten up their defensive rotations and continue to play with high intensity. The Illini need to find a go-to guy on offense. On the road, teams need to have something they can hang their hat on. Many times so far, the Illini play with a little too much randomness and force their young guys to create shots.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

We at Armchair Illini are proudly sponsored by Hamilton Walker’s Steak, Seafood, and Spirits. Located in the heart of downtown Champaign, there is no better restaurant for Illini fans to visit. Order online here or call (217) 350-0363 to make a reservation.

For feedback, questions, concerns, or to apply for a writing position, please email our Publisher at [email protected]. Please use our Seatgeek code for $20 off your purchase on Seatgeek.com: ARMCHAIRILLINOIS. It is because of your support that we have become one of the fastest-growing Illinois media outlets around!

Thank you for reading Armchair Illini!