5 crucial observations from the Illinois basketball win over Ohio State

5. If you haven’t already, start buying Ty Rodgers stock

It seems that every observation post after a game this season has included Ty Rodgers. But I include him in these posts for a good reason. This kid is special.

Rodgers has been such a valuable piece to the Illinois basketball team this season. While he only checks in a 6-foot-6, he can rebound the ball better than just about anyone on the team. Shoot, I would argue most nights, he is the best rebounder on the floor.

The explosion and hustle of Rodgers is fun to watch, and it was on display once again on Tuesday night against Ohio State. He finished the game with 13 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, and one steal. This is his second double-double of the season, second to the Fairleigh Dickinson outing when he had 10 points and 15 rebounds.

I would argue the thing I am most excited about when it comes to Rodgers is his offensive game. We know he is a great defender and an athletic freak, but his offensive game has endless possibilities. I feel like he continues to grow as a shooter. He finishes incredibly well around the rim, and now he is starting to take more shots from a little further away. One day, he might start developing his mid-range more too.

We are in the beginning stages of what could be a legendary Illinois basketball player. Rodgers’ development has been incredible, and if you haven’t already, you should start buying stock in this kid.