Can Illinois Be a Final Four Contender with Defensive Struggles? Underwood Suggests Yes
Despite having a KenPom.com defensive efficiency rating of No. 94, Illinois is still near the top of a Big Ten Conference that has more offensive weapons than previous seasons.
Matt Stevens, IlliniGuys Staff Writer
February 29, 2024
CHAMPAIGN — Despite Brad Underwood knowing his team was likely to win, a perfectly completed action resulting in a three-point shot by Mike Mitchell Jr. resulted in the Illinois seventh year head coach screaming at the top of his lungs and slamming his right fist on the scorer's table next to his bench.
During the post-game radio interview following the victory over Minnesota on Wednesday night, Illinois color commentator Deon Thomas attempted to explain the 97 points allowed by the Illini by complimenting the home team's defensive overall efficiency.