Nothing But Will Power: Illini’s Freshman Sensation Loves Having March Madness Take Over Emotions

Illinois freshman wing Will Riley is enjoying having his first NCAA Tournament experience overcome his normal calm, cool and emotionless style on the court.

By Matt Stevens - IlliniGuys Staff Writer

March 22, 2025

MILWAUKEE — By the time the Illinois players and coaches were ready for Saturday’s closed practice session inside Fiserv Forum, Will Riley had seen his highlight reel, and-one bucket over and over again.

With 10 minutes and 40 seconds left in the NCAA Tournament first round matchup against Xavier, the Illini freshman maneuvered his body through two defenders on his way to a winding layup while . . .

 

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