Illinois Basketball: 5 observations from the Illini win over Michigan State

3. Verdonk is coming around

Without Kofi Cockburn at the No. 5 spot, I thought Illinois was cooked. There was no chance we could control the paint and not get torched every night by the opposing team’s big man.

What I underestimated completely was the presence of Benjamin Bosmans-Verdonk. The forward who has been turned into a center has stepped up into the starting spot for the Illini and has performed well. While he did struggle in the Maryland game, Verdonk’s presence in the Purdue and Michigan State matchups has been impressive.

On Tuesday night, Verdonk would finish the game with eight points, three rebounds, and one steal. He was 4-of-7 from the field and saw 22 minutes of action. That is a solid stat line.

Much like Luke Goode, Verdonk’s defense is probably what has impressed me the most in his time as a starter. He can hold his own in the paint. Does the offensive player score at times? Sure, but that is usually because the offensive player is four inches taller than Verdonk.

I was impressed by Verdonk during the entire Michigan State game. He could body anyone who challenged him within 10 feet of the basket. The only issue I have is Verdonk’s footwork. When he does go out on the perimeter to cover a big man, Verdonk can get burnt if the opposing player tries to drive the ball. But, honestly, that is the only complaint I have with Verdonk.

Overall, Verdonk has already done more than I thought he could do. If he looks this good with that little time on the court, just imagine what he could look like by season’s end.