5. Ty Rodgers continues to impress me
There is a lot to rave about in the 98-87 win over Nebraska. Illinois looked great, especially in the second half, and there were some big-time contributors. One of those contributors was Ty Rodgers.
Rodgers is finally getting the quality playing time he has always deserved, and he is making the most of it. For the second game in a row, I am mentioning Rodgers as a star player who has great potential. I think that is the first time this season.
But, once again, Rodgers was great for Illinois. He was coming off a performance against Ohio State where he finished with 12 points, 10 rebounds, one assist, and one block while going 5-of-8 from the field in 32 minutes of action. He followed that outing with eight points, 13 rebounds, and four assists against Nebraska on Saturday.
The shooting from Rodgers seems to have improved, or at least his decision-making on when to shoot around the bucket. When he gets the ball around the paint, he is aggressive and can finish at the hoop. That couldn’t be said for him last season. The ability to actually put the ball in the bucket has improved greatly.
I would argue Rodgers is one of the best rebounders I have seen in the last 30 years of Illinois basketball. At 6-foot-6, and yes I know I mention his height every time I talk about him, he plays like a 7-foot-2 big man. The ability to rebound the basketball while being sub-6-foot-7 is quite incredible.
The future is so bright for Rodgers. Hopefully, this season ends in a national title, and Rodgers can carry that experience into the 2024-25 campaign as a leader on this team.