5 big observations from the Illinois basketball win over Eastern Illinois

It was a great start to the 2024-25 season, as the Illinois basketball team thrashed Eastern Illinois.

Nov 4, 2024; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini forward Will Riley (7) reacts after scoring during the second half against the Eastern Illinois Panthers at State Farm Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-Imagn Images / Ron Johnson-Imagn Images

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2. You have to love Will Riley’s output

Illinois blew the doors off Eastern Illinois on Monday night. While the halftime score only showed a 15-point lead, this game was never in doubt. A huge reason Illinois put up a massive number was the play of Will Riley.

Riley entered the Illinois program as a five-star recruit, but you never know how quickly a player will get acclimated to the college speed and game. Brad Underwood is bringing Riley off the bench, so he clearly didn’t do enough to be in the starting squad.

Throughout his time in high school, Riley put up big numbers. In the first game of the season, he continued that trend with a huge game against Eastern Illinois. Riley finished the win with 31 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and one block.

I loved everything about Riley’s game against the Panthers. He isn’t afraid to shoot the ball. He shoots it with the confidence of Steph Curry as well.

The fact Riley went 5-of-6 from three-point range really jumps out to me. Not only does he have a great shooting stroke, but the fact Riley is 6-foot-8 helps stretch the floor. Riley can play around the hoop, but he can pull out a No. 4 to help clear the lane for players like Tre White and Kylan Boswell.

Riley’s shooting ability is incredible. He is going to have a great season at Illinois. If Riley continues playing well, he is going to shoot up into the top 10 of 2025 NBA Draft prospects.

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