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Illinois Basketball: 5 observations from the Illini win over UNLV

By Rees Woodcock

CHAMPAIGN , IL - NOVEMBER 13: The Big 10 logo on the floor before a college basketball game between the Georgetown Hoyas and the Illinois Fighting Illini at the State Farm Center on November 13, 2018 in Champaign, Illinois. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) *** Local Caption ***
CHAMPAIGN , IL - NOVEMBER 13: The Big 10 logo on the floor before a college basketball game between the Georgetown Hoyas and the Illinois Fighting Illini at the State Farm Center on November 13, 2018 in Champaign, Illinois. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** /
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SOUTH BEND, IN – NOVEMBER 27: Da’Monte Williams #20 of the Illinois Fighting Illini drives to the basket during the game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Purcell Pavilion on November 27, 2018 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
SOUTH BEND, IN – NOVEMBER 27: Da’Monte Williams #20 of the Illinois Fighting Illini drives to the basket during the game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Purcell Pavilion on November 27, 2018 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

5. Da’Monte Williams’ struggles are confusing

One player who I thought would have a breakout year but, surprisingly, hasn’t is Da’Monte Williams. I know this kid has a lot of talent, but we haven’t seen it yet this season.

Williams has received a decent number of minutes off the bench this year. There have been a few games where he contributed solid numbers, but his game just hasn’t been clicking, primarily on the offensive end of the court.

Over the last four games, Williams is shooting 3-of-17 from the field and 1-of-8 from the three-point arc. These aren’t good numbers, and I am guessing that the offensive flow probably has something to do with the lack of offensive production by Williams.

Don’t get me wrong, though. Williams still contributes to this team. Despite his bad shooting, there are times he is aggressive towards the rim and can get to the free throw line. He has a great ability to bring down rebounds and can dish the ball well too.

Next. 5 big targets for the Illini class of 2019. dark

Williams can do everything on the basketball court. This is why he is so valuable. He is our Swiss Army Knife. I am a little concerned about what he can provide on offense. He can’t have another zero point, two rebound night as he did against UNLV.

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