5 big observations from the Illinois basketball win over Michigan

2. Coleman Hawkins was a menace against Michigan

When Coleman Hawkins is playing fun and free basketball, he is so entertaining. He is one of the most unique players that has ever played for the Illinois basketball program.

In the first game this season, Hawkins was able to torch Michigan. He finished the game with 21 points, 10 rebounds, six steals, four assists, and one block. This was an incredible game and a big reason we were able to get a double-digit road victory.

With Terrence Shannon Jr. back in the mix this time around, it would have been understandable if Hawkins didn’t have a great game. If he took a step back, that would kind of be expected. That didn’t happen, though.

Most of Hawkins’ work came in the first half because Illinois held an 18-point halftime lead. Hawkins didn’t need to see a lot of minutes in the second half. In just the first half, Hawkins had five points, four assists, three rebounds, and two blocks.

This great first half is a big reason why Illinois got out to such a big lead. Hawkins’ passing ability is truly impressive. He can throw skip passes with the best of the best. He saw a play developing and was able to hit Marcus Domask for a wide-open layup. Hawkins was the quarterback of the Illini on Tuesday night.

In the second half, Hawkins stepped on the throat of the Wolverines. He added a measly 12 points and two rebounds while shooting a perfect 4-of-4 from the field and 2-of-2 from three-point range. Hawkins destroyed Michigan and they are probably happy this is his final season in Champaign.