Illinois Basketball: Adam Miller already piling up accolades for Illini

Just a week into his rookie campaign, Adam Miller has showcased his talents as one of the country’s most prolific scorers for the Illinois basketball team.

Miller, a former Morgan Park standout, has quickly emerged as another weapon in Illinois’ prolific offense. The Illini, ranked No. 5 in the latest AP Poll, started its toughest stretch of the non-conference slate on Wednesday night.

Illinois fell to No. 2 Baylor 82-69 to start their tough stretch. UT-Martin is next up for the Illini on Saturday, followed by No. 6 Duke on December 8 before rounding out the first half of its schedule on December 12 at Missouri for the annual Braggin’ Rights game.

Miller put together two solid outings in Illinois’ first three victories, as his 28 points against North Carolina A&T helped propel the Orange and Blue to its most lopsided win of the season, 122-60. His defensive effort on the glass also paid dividends, though he still has more room to grow as the season progresses.

Miller’s performances earned him the Big Ten Co-Freshman of the Week honors, as Illini Nation has a lot to be excited about this season with so many challenging games on the horizon.

The Illinois-Baylor game was the Illini’s highest ranked game since the national championship in 2005.

For some Illinois fans, Wednesday’s game against Baylor was a moment that they’ve waited a long time for. Brad Underwood has made basketball in Champaign important once again, and even with no fans, the Illini proved that they belonged with the best of the best as they hung tough with the Bears.

Illini fans should have a lot to get excited about, as the season is officially in full swing, with a game against UT-Martin coming up here this Saturday in Champaign.