After a big win over Wisconsin this past weekend, Illinois basketball was back in action on Tuesday night against Nebraska.
This was a very close game for about 30 minutes. The Illini were struggling, and Nebraska was not letting up. With less than 11 minutes to go in the game, the Cornhuskers actually had a two-point lead.
But then Illinois woke up and took over. A big stretch of tough defense and scoring led to the Illini going on a sizeable run. Just like that, Illinois would end up cruising to an easy 72-56 win over Nebraska.
Here are five observations from the Illinois basketball win over the Nebraska Cornhuskers.
1. Illinois fans got a glimpse of future
Many people are watching Illinois and just thinking about how the team will end up finishing this season. We had multiple players transfer in, so winning now is important.
What I loved to see on Tuesday night was a glimpse of the future. While the focus is on winning the national title this season, Illini fans got to see what the future is going to look like against Nebraska.
At one time against the Cornhuskers, Illinois had not one, not two, but three true freshmen on the court at the same time. Jayden Epps, Sencire Harris, and Ty Rodgers were all in the game when each possession mattered. It was a massive show of trust from Brad Underwood. That trust paid off as well.
The three freshmen combined for 27 points on 11-of-17 shooting from the floor. They were efficient and effective in their shot selection. I also love the fact that these freshmen can do everything on the court. Not only did they combine for 27 points, but they also had 13 rebounds, six assists, and four steals.
A victory is what we wanted, but we also got a glimpse of what is in store for the Illinois basketball team next season. The Illini will be one of the best teams in the country.