5. Is this the game where Ben Humrichous breaks out?
The first four slides of this article were about numbers and which team can overcome the other team with efficiency and better play. This contest is also going to be about certain players performing.
Illinois is a program that has a ton of talent. Numerous players on this roster would start for the vast majority of the teams in the nation. But there are a few players who need to start performing.
That is why I am finishing this article off with the big question of, is this the game where Ben Humrichous breaks out?
Let me tell you, it has been extremely frustrating the last month or so watching Humrichous. I am not mad at him because he goes out there and gives it his all, but it is frustrating that you have such a talented player who isn’t hitting shots.
If Humrichous was shooting his average the past few games, we knock off both Tennessee and Northwestern. Illinois is likely in the top 15 nationally as well. That is how much he is making a difference.
Instead of Humrichous playing up to his ability in those two contests, he laid eggs. Against Tennessee and Northwestern, he was a combined 2-of-13 from three-point range. He also averaged 34.5 minutes in those games.
I think it is pretty simple. Humrichous needs to start making buckets. If he can shoot 35% or better from three-point range, then Illinois will start winning these big games. If he continues to lay eggs, then Illinois will continue to struggle.