A few nights ago, multiple things happened on the court that were embarrassing to the Illinois basketball program.
First and foremost, the display on the court against Michigan State was brutal. The Illini were competitive until about the 10-minute mark in the second half. That is when the Spartans took control of the game and won by 14 points.
Watching the disappointing defeat was Terrence Shannon Jr. The Illinois legend was honored at halftime of the game, and his jersey was raised into the rafters for all to see.
Most jerseys are revealed and raised without the nation taking notice. It is usually an intimate setting. Not this time around. Shannon’s jersey was revealed, and to the Illini's dismay and national laughter, the enlarged jersey was upside down.
I chose not to write about the upside-down jersey honoring because well, the whole world was piling on, and I didn’t want to do that to the program I love. But in true Illinois fashion, we have made something good out of an embarrassing situation.
Illinois basketball legend Terrence Shannon jr. is turning the frown upside down and helping the local community
Instead of going into hiding or just brushing the situation under the rug, Shannon has done something not many people would do.
He is turning this massive Illinois gaffe into good.
On Tuesday afternoon, Shannon took to social media to announce that he and Gameday Spirit have teamed up to create t-shirts that read, “When life has you upside down, turn it around! – TSJ.”
When life has you upside down, turn it around⏳
— Terrence Shannon Jr (@Sn1per_T) February 18, 2025
Proceeds from my upside-down banner shirt will benefit the Don Moyer Boys and Girls Club. Thank you to Gameday Spirit and Illinois for helping me bring this idea to life!https://t.co/ObXbyh4eli pic.twitter.com/uM0LtX95i5
Fittingly enough, the “upside down” part is upside down to make light of the events that happened on Saturday.
The proceeds of the t-shirts that are being made will benefit the Don Moyer Boys and Girls Club, which is the local Boys and Girls Club of Champaign. You can also purchase sweatshirts with the unique logo. For more information and to make a purchase, visit this link.
What a way to turn the national comedy club into a great cause. Shannon is not just an All-American on the court, but he is also an All-American off the court.