Kylan Boswell historic triple double highlights transformative year

Kylan Boswell capped off 2024 in historic fashion, recording the seventh triple double in Illinois basketball history against Chicago State. The 19-year-old junior guard has met and exceeded expectations since transferring from Arizona, carving out a unique and impactful role for Illinois.

Kylan Boswell TRIPLE DOUBLE‼️

The seventh triple-double in Illini history 👀pic.twitter.com/3kdaczqaoC

— The Field of 68 (@TheFieldOf68) December 29, 2024

New role in Champaign

Coming to Champaign was a full reset for Kylan Boswell. At Arizona, he thrived in transition and as a bailout option when plays broke down. However, Illinois head coach Brad Underwood is demanding more from Boswell’s game, allowing him to hunt for his shot more intentionally within the offense.

This freedom has come with growing pains, particularly from beyond the arc. Boswell has struggled to find consistency from long range, seeing his three-point percentage drop from a respectable 38% at Arizona to just 23% this season. Despite this dip, his midrange and inside-the-arc game have flourished. Boswell’s two-point field goal percentage has improved, reflecting his aggression and physicality at the rim. At 6’2″ and 200 pounds, he has been relentless in attacking the basket, leveraging his size to overpower guards and wings.

Kylan Boswell provides aggression and defense

One of the most telling stats of Boswell’s evolution is his dramatic increase in free throw attempts, a staggering 330% jump compared to his time at Arizona. He is one of five players in the Big Ten who attempt at least 4.5 FTs per game while dishing at least four assists per game. His ability to draw contact and get to the line has not only boosted his scoring but also puts opposing guards in foul trouble. His defensive pressure compounds their misery; Boswell’s on-ball defense is elite, particularly in isolation situations, where opponents have failed to convert a single field goal against him this season.

Take, for instance, his matchup with Alabama’s Mark Sears, a preseason favorite for SEC and National Player of the Year. Though Illinois fell short in the game, Boswell ultimately made Sears bench himself after going 0-5 from the floor with no points and two turnovers due to Boswell’s defense.

Backcourt practice battles

What fans don’t see is the cliche “iron-sharpens-iron” dynamic between Boswell and freshman guard Kasparas Jakucionis in practice. Jakucionis has shown remarkable improvement as the season has progressed. Much of that growth can be attributed to the daily battles, but their constant chemistry building with each other.

Looking ahead

Kylan Boswell’s defensive and playmaking ability have already positioned him as one of the best off ball guards in the country. If he can regain his shooting touch from beyond the arc, his impact will elevate the Illinois ceiling significantly. With lofty expectations for the Illini this season, Boswell’s shooting development could be the key to unlocking their full potential.

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