Illinois kicks off Groce era in grand style

"I need to take a deep breath," Groce said after the game. "You see the names that are on that trophy and it really puts it into perspective. The quality of this tournament. I think it's the premier preseason tournament."

"The thing I was probably the most proud of was our toughness," Groce added. "Whenever you play Butler, you have to be tough. They are just so tough mentally and physically. They never beat themselves. ... We're excited. We're not done. I think it's a tremendous start for our basketball program. But we can still get better."

Asked to describe his style in one word, Groce responded, "Attacking."

Chad Ford