Illinois Basketball: 5 observations from the Illini loss to Ohio State

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Illinois Fighting Illini forward Kipper Nichols (2) fouls Ohio State Buckeyes guard Keyshawn Woods (32) during the second half at the United Center Wednesday Dec. 5, 2018, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune/TNS via Getty Images) /

1. Kipper had another big game

Let’s call it like it is. Kipper Nichols had a really bad road trip out to Hawaii for the Maui Invitational and then had another stinker against Notre Dame. Those were his only bad games so far this season.

There were some fans getting on Nichols for his play this year. He did struggle at times, but he is way too good of a player to continue to struggle. He was able to break out of his bad Hawaii trip with a 14-point performance against Mississippi Valley State. Over the last two games, he has been solid as well.

Nichols dropped 12 points on 5-of-6 shooting from the field against Nebraska. He also pulled down two rebounds in that game as well. This was a nice sight to see considering the prior struggles. Wednesday night was even better for this young athletic wing player.

Illinois was able to keep up with No. 19 Ohio State for a while and it was thanks to Nichols. He finished the game with 18 points on 6-of-11 shooting from the field and 2-of-3 from three-point land. He also added five rebounds and two steals to the mix too.

Nichols had another good game and continues to play well. He should be starting for this Illini team for the remainder of the season if he is playing like this. He is not the reason Illinois fell to the Buckeyes.

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