I’m likely in the deep minority on this, but I’ve seen others refer to Illini as having #2 finish last year and I just think that is wrong. Being number 2 heading into tourney to me isn’t finishing #2. Illini lost in second round of tourney and finished #8 in final standings. Can’t talk about wanting to win the tourney and then just disregard so you can refer to a higher ranking. Illini had a great season that ended with some disappointment. No need to go back to second to last poll to make one feel better about end of season. Illini finished as #8 team in final poll. Nothing wrong with that. OK rant over.
I mean we all were disappointed with the loss in the tourney, but we can’t let that detract from a great season where we had two of the best ever to play on our team. Who cares if people mention we were 2 in final regular season poll or whatever ?
I get you though. Think about the highs of the season and respect how much they had to deal with.
Then think about the great players we have returning and on the way.
Belo will be one of the best PGs in the nation.
Trent and Monte are Illini legends.
Podz and Melendez are high volume scorers that fit Underwoods system perfectly.
Plus we will likely add another very good player.