Illinois Basketball: 5 takeaways from the Illini loss to Iowa

3. The disappointment is great with Te’Jon Lucas

Illinois went into last night’s game needing a win over Iowa. They were a favorite at home and they needed to notch a Big Ten victory. I didn’t mind the starting lineup to start the game. At least Brad Underwood was willing to do something to light a fire underneath this team.

Trent Frazier once again started at the No. 1 and it has been that way since the Minnesota game. He has been sensational for the Illini since he took over the reins. Te’Jon Lucas is Frazier’s backup. He is supposed to be a good leader coming off the bench and someone teammates can look to for guidance.

But, before the game on Thursday night, it was announced that Lucas would not be playing in the game against Iowa due to a violation of a team rule. I was greatly disappointed by the fact Lucas couldn’t play in the game because of his own doing.

On top of the disappointment from Lucas not being a leader, this suspension couldn’t have come at a worse time. While Lucas sat on the bench not being able to help his team because of what he did, four different Illini fouled out including three starters. Illinois needed depth in this game and Lucas couldn’t provide that.

Whatever is going on with Lucas didn’t just hurt him. It hurt the team. They could have used him last night but he let everyone down. Hopefully, this is a learning experience for him.