I'm shocked that our offensive plan changed for once and transitioned to interior offense.
This was the decision that won the day. They were beating us on both offense and defense with the initial action at the top of the key and were going to continue if something did not change. All they wanted to do was slow Keaton down and they were very effective in the first half. Getting the ball to move quicker and to others broke their system in that regard and allowed us to exploit our strengths inside.
This was a team win in so many ways, especially in the second half.
And for those who ever thought AS was a waste of money, listen to the coach. From day one, he was exactly what this team needed to reach their potential. He has skills against FF quality opponents that no one else on the roster possesses. Tonight, those skills were paramount in the Illini win. A deep bow of respect to Andrej who makes me shake my head so often when he makes yet another impossible hoop.
But most of all, a deep and admiring bow of respect to this Illini team. They are so deserving of this success and more. From the first game, they were an exciting, skilled, unselfish, hard working crew...yes sometimes head-shaking but that is the case for every team....that made all Illini fans excited to see them play.
But there are two more games left to reach their dream...and it is reachable. Yet, truth be known, I would prefer a bit faster start in the next two!!