Illinois Basketball: 5 observations from the Illini win over Kansas City

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Nov 11, 2022; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini guard RJ Melendez (15) tries to knock the ball from UMKC Kangaroos guard Abdullah Olajuwon (33) during the second half at State Farm Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /

3. The basketball team is similar to the football team

Illinois basketball and football are playing at the same time during the calendar year. They are both ranked inside the top 25 as well.

But beyond playing at the same time and being nationally ranked, the two teams have other similarities.

I believe the Illinois basketball and football teams are constructed the same way. Both have great defenses with offenses that can put up points when they get hot. But there are also times when the offense becomes stagnant and gets away from what they do best.

Much like the Illinois football defense, the Illinois basketball defense keeps the game close. We can go 3-of-21 from the field to start the game but not be losing. That is incredible and it shows you how good this Illinois team can be on the defensive end of the court.

Illinois basketball’s defense is also good at taking the ball away, much like the Illinois football team. We are averaging 10.5 steals per game, which ranks No. 45 out of 350+ teams in college basketball. That is an impressive number.

I love what both programs are doing in their respective sport. Hopefully, both the football and basketball team can bring home a Big Ten title this season.

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