Illinois Basketball: 4 observations from the win over Chicago State

4. Ayo Dosunmu was doing whatever he wanted

Ayo Dosunmu is showing everybody why he is included on the Naismith Award watch list this offseason.  The junior guard has looked like a man on a mission through the Illini’s first two games of the season.  Ayo picked up right where he left off after a 28-point, 10-rebound outing in the season opener.

In Thursday’s contest against Chicago State, Ayo put up another eye-catching stat line before exiting the game early with a comfortable Illini lead. He would finish the game with 22 points, shooting 8-of-13 from the field (61.5-percent).

All 22 of Ayo’s points came from inside the perimeter, as the junior guard only attempted two three-point shots.  Most of his points came from inside the paint, as the junior guard had no problem using crafty moves to create scoring opportunities down low.

Coach Underwood acknowledged Dosunmu’s dominance under the basket following the Thanksgiving Day victory.

"“Ayo and Kofi put a lot of pressure on the front of the rim,” Underwood told media."

Dosunmu also tallied up 7 assists, 6 rebounds, and 2 steals in Thursday’s contest.

The Illini look to continue their dominance as they host the Ohio Bobcats today at 1:00 EST.  Illinois will look to start the season off 3-0 before playing No. 2 ranked Baylor next Wednesday.