Illini Ride Simple Hot Hand Basketball Formula To NCAA Tourney First Round Win

Illinois point guard Kasparas Jakucionis finished one rebound shy of the program’s second-ever triple double in a NCAA Tournament game as the Illini cruise to 86-73 win over Xavier.

By Matt Stevens - IlliniGuys Staff Writer

March 22, 2025

MILWAUKEE — When asked on Friday night how many offensive sets were called out from the his bench in the second half, Illinois head coach Brad Underwood immediately smiled from ear to ear.

The answer is simple.

“None,” the Illini eight-year head coach said knowing the answer would get some confused looks from media members . . .

 

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