Recent content by Nohops 73

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    Illini Basketball 2026-2027

    For #3 above, I hope Toni’s energized work ethic rubs off on Z. Seems like there is still so much untapped potential in his game. Think what 20 pounds more muscle and a couple post moves could add to his game.
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    NBA Draft

    This probably kills the chances of Mavs trading up to take Keaton with the #5 pick.
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    Illini Basketball 2026-2027

    I’m intrigued with Z’s potential improvement this off season. If he can add serious strength plus an additional 20+ pounds it could totally transform his game. Would not get pushed around as much and could be a low post threat with quickness and leaping ability. Not sure if he has the drive to...
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    Illinois Hoops Recruiting Thread

    If he’s just finishing his sophomore year in HS, there’s a decent chance he’s still growing. Wouldn’t it be fantastic to see him arrive at 6’-8” or so.
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    Illinois Hoops Recruiting Thread

    It wouldn’t be Loyalty without someone pointing out the glass is 3% empty….
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    Illini in the Pros (Basketball)

    With DiVincenzo out many months and Anthony Edwards likely out for the rest of this series, the Timberwolves have 3 chances to win one game and advance. Hoping that TSJ is feeling stronger and can be a second Illini major contributor, along with Ayo, to pull them across the finish line. Take...
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    Illini in the Pros (Basketball)

    Bulls front office: “Oops, we did it again!”
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    Illini in the Pros (Basketball)

    Ayo with 36 points in 39 minutes. His most ever in an NBA game.
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    Illinois Hoops Recruiting Thread

    Agree completely that Z has the most untapped potential. How he has not developed some effective post moves before now? OA should be opening his bag of tricks for Z to learn. Hi-low feeds from T to Z should be a nightmare matchup against 99+% of opponents. Of course he has to have the will to...
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    Illinois Hoops Recruiting Thread

    First, I’m very excited about next year’s team. Don’t underestimate the value of the culture and genuine camaraderie among the returning players. Think this will generate benefits throughout the season. It’s also interesting to compare the mindset of Blackwell versus Yaxel regarding winning and...
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    Game Thread: Illinois vs UConn

    Gaaaaaa! Make a layup!!
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    Pregame: Illinois vs UConn, 5:09pm CT, TBS

    Illinois is the better team overall, with better rebounding, depth, and more ways to score. UConn's only real advantage is their recent experience playing in the Final Four, so they should be unbothered with the atmosphere and focused on the game. It is critical that Illinois comes out of the...
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    Game Thread: Illinois vs Iowa

    Agree completely! Iowa looks very comfortable running their offense, so getting good shots in rhythm. We look tight and tense, not sharing ball as shown by few assists. Brad needs to make changes at half to change the flow.
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    Pregame: Illinois vs Houston, Thursday, March 26th, 9:05pm CT, TBS

    I also like that we have had several days to prepare for Houston's trapping and overplaying passing lanes. They may throw in a few new wrinkles, but our guys have the BB IQ to adjust on the fly. If this were the Regional Finals game with only a day to prepare, the adjustments would be more...
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    Pregame: Illinois vs Houston, Thursday, March 26th, 9:05pm CT, TBS

    Houston has not beaten a team as good as Illinois all year. Their best wins are against Kansas, Arkansas and Texas Tech. While they are clearly a very good team, Illinois should not be intimidated. Play their game and see what happens.
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