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Illinois Basketball: 4 big statistics from the Illini win over Michigan

By Rees Woodcock

Michigan center Hunter Dickinson (1) makes a layup against Illinois center Kofi Cockburn (21) during the first half Tuesday, March 2, 2021, at the Crisler Center in Ann Arbor.
Michigan center Hunter Dickinson (1) makes a layup against Illinois center Kofi Cockburn (21) during the first half Tuesday, March 2, 2021, at the Crisler Center in Ann Arbor. /
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Mar 2, 2021; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andre Curbelo (5) dribbles defended by Michigan Wolverines guard Mike Smith (12) in the second half at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 2, 2021; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andre Curbelo (5) dribbles defended by Michigan Wolverines guard Mike Smith (12) in the second half at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

2. 0.89

Illinois had decent scoring distribution against Michigan on Tuesday. Three players scored at least 12 points and a total of nine players were able to get into the scoring column.

One of the most impressive players was Andre Curbelo, though. He was sensational in the time on the court. His point production was one of the best for the Illini.

Curbelo averaged 0.89 points per minute against the Wolverines.

It was an incredibly impressive showing by Curbelo. He ended the night with 17 points in just 19 minutes on the court. That 0.89 points per minute is the second-best production the star freshman has had this season. The only other time he has produced more points per minute was in the Chicago State blowout the second game of the season. In that game, he averaged 0.90 PPM.

I believe this is, hands down, the best game of the season for Curbelo. It couldn’t have come at a better time either. The fact a freshman steps up in the biggest game of the season, and potentially the last decade, is something we should greatly appreciate.

Curbelo continues to show why he is the future of this program. He has now put up at least 10 points in his last four games. But let’s be honest, his performance on Tuesday against Michigan was one for the ages. This kid is so special.

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