Groce: "These kids, they deserve to have a crowd"

#PackTheHall

— Brandon Paul (@BP3) December 11, 2012

GAMEDAY #beatnorfolkstate #packthehall

— Orange Krush (@Illini_OKrush) December 11, 2012

There was a time when Illinois students camped out overnight for prime seating. It's about time that excitement level returned to the fan base. The Illini are ranked in the Top 10 for the first time in more than six years and the team is playing an exciting brand of basketball while achieving the lofty rating. "These kids, they deserve to have a crowd," Illinois coach John Groce said. "I just came out of a place Saturday (Gonzaga) that was revved up like none other. It would be great to have the same type of environment here this week at home. The more the merrier."

Marcus Jackson