Illinois Basketball: 5 observations from the Illini win over the Minnesota Golden Gophers

Illinois basketball was in a must-win situation on Monday night, and we came through with a win over Minnesota.

This wasn’t the blowout win I was expecting for the Illini, though. Coming into the game as 15-point favorites, I expected Illinois to rush the Golden Gophers and put them away early. That wasn’t the case at all.

Minnesota came out and gave the Illini a fight all night long. They would hang tough until the end, but thankfully, Illinois was able to hold them at arm’s length. The Illini would come away with the victory, 78-69.

Here are five observations from the Illinois basketball win over the Minnesota Golden Gophers.

1. Matthew Mayer was dangerous at all levels

I believe Matthew Mayer is one of the most unique players I have ever seen suit up for the Orange and Blue. He brings a skillset to the table that is hard for anyone to match.

Over the past couple of months, I have repeatedly mentioned that Mayer is better at creating shots than being an actually spot-up shooter. His handles are solid, and when he can jab step and then do his patented step-back, he is at his best.

Mayer had another great performance on Monday night against Minnesota. He would finish the night with 22 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and two steals while going 7-of-14 from the field and 2-of-7 from three-point range.

One of his three-pointers on the night was a sweet crossover where he broke a defender’s ankles and knocked down the shot. It was one of the best plays in the game.

This 22-point performance from Mayer is starting to become a usual thing. He has now had back-to-back 20-point games, and he has had four in the last seven contests. In that seven-game stretch, Mayer is averaging 18.3 points per game.

I would argue that Illinois has never had a 6-foot-9 or taller player do with Mayer does on the basketball court. He is a special talent and let’s enjoy watching him while he is in Champaign.