Illinois Basketball: 5 observations from the Illini win over Monmouth

5. Happy to see RJ Melendez getting out of his funk

Illinois has played some great basketball this season. We have won every game by at least 30 points. But playing great team basketball doesn’t mean every player is playing well.

There are a few players who have struggled to start the 2022-23 campaign. RJ Melendez is one of those players. He was projected as a potential second-round pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, but the start of his season doesn’t scream NBA draft pick.

In the first two games of the season, Melendez averaged 4.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2.0 steals, 1.5 blocks, and 1.0 assists per game. He struggled from the field, going 2-of-12 and 1-of-8 from three-point range. Things were not looking good.

On Monday night against Monmouth, it made me happy to see Melendez starting to get out of his funk. He actually had a good game and showed more of his NBA potential.

Melendez would finish with nine points, five rebounds, two assists, and two steals against the Hawks. He would also shoot 4-of-7 from the field and 1-of-3 from three-point range. His 57.1% from the field doubled his season-best thus far.

Even when Melendez was struggling in the first couple of games, he was still able to help the team. That is a sign of great talent. But now that he is starting to make some shots, Melendez is going to be super dangerous. This Illinois team is going to be special once Melendez gets back into form.