Hi everyone, first time poster but long time reader. I would like to preface that I am an Illinois alum but not from the state.
What I find interesting is the immediate negativity regarding everything. I understand when online any, and everything can turn into an echo chamber, however, the loss of perspective is a little upsetting.
I can understand how the turnover can be upsetting to some, but the team did only win 14 games with an entire new system, a coaching staff learning to work together for the first time, and behind the scene issues we were not privy to.
It is easy to go "woe is me" but Coach Underwood has said for years how his dream job is Illinois. His system and principles have been adopted across the country. He has also won everywhere and been praised form the likes of Frank Martin and Bob Huggins.
Recruiting in the long run net in more losses than wins, but that is the nature of the beast. I believe that Coach Underwood prioritizing athletes who are versatile, and putting a premium on longer guards who can shoot will pay off. For example, Jalen Lecque is a top 10 player in the class of '19, but he couldn't even shoot 20% in Peach Jam. Sure the staff offered off his athleticism, but I imagine the staff would rather have a lesser rated player who can be molded, let's not discredit the development aspect of the program, which after year one has not had enough time to be evident.
So I guess to wrap this up I understand the frustration, being irrelevant isn't fun. But we have the staff and already some players in place after one year who are determined to, and I frankly believe, will cause Illinois to rise again. Come on everyone, we are 0-0 right now, let's keep things upbeat right now.