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

2. The Illini played defense and rebounded well

Despite the loss to Ohio State on Wednesday night, the Illinois basketball team actually played defense and rebounded pretty well. They were able to get to the Buckeyes and cause problems for some of their main players.

The rebounding department has been an issue for the Illini this season. They are only averaging 33 rebounds per game, which ranks No. 271 in the nation. Against Ohio State, they were actually able to pull down 34 rebounds, which is above their season average. The Buckeyes only pulled down 38 rebounds. That isn’t a bad margin considering the size Ohio State brings to the table.

Another struggle for the Illini has been turnovers. They average 14 turnovers per game, which ranks No. 204 in the nation. On Wednesday night, they actually hit that number with 14 turnovers against Ohio State, but the important number was the Buckeyes’ turnovers. Ohio State finished the night with 19 turnovers. This shows the Illini had a great defense.

The Illinois defense also held most of the Ohio State starters in check. Kaleb Wesson only finished with 13 points and seven rebounds. He is their best player. Luther Muhammad only had six points on the night. Four of the Ohio State starters scored eight points or less. That shows the Illini defense was solid for most of the night.

Despite the loss and a rough second half, I was impressed with the Illini defense. They did some really good things that they can build on moving forward.