Illinois Triumphs Over Purdue as Wagler Sets Freshman Scoring Record
In a thrilling encounter, Illinois triumphed over Purdue 88-82, showcasing a remarkable performance from freshman Keaton Wagler. This victory solidified Illinois’ position as a strong contender in college basketball.
Wagler Sets New Freshman Scoring Record
Keaton Wagler made headlines by scoring 46 points, setting a record for the most points in a single game by an Illinois freshman. His explosive performance also included tying the program record with nine three-pointers, solidifying his status as a standout player.
Game Highlights
- Wagler shot 13 of 17 from the field.
- He made 9 of 11 attempts from long range.
- The game featured a total of 14 lead changes.
Wagler’s scoring outburst took place at Mackey Arena, where he recorded the highest point total by a visiting player in its history. Despite a hostile environment and the absence of senior scorer Kylan Boswell, Wagler led his team to victory.
Illinois’ Determination
Illinois overcame an 11-point deficit in the first half. Their performance included making 18 of 38 three-point attempts, translating to a shooting percentage of 47.4%. This win marked the Fighting Illini’s ninth consecutive victory, moving their season record to 17-3, with an impressive 8-1 in Big Ten play.
Purdue’s Challenges
Purdue, now also at 17-3 and 7-2 in the Big Ten, faced back-to-back losses this week. Their previous defeat came in a narrow game against UCLA. Senior point guard Braden Smith led his team with 27 points and 12 assists during the match against Illinois.
A Historic Day for Freshmen
This game was part of a historic day for college basketball freshmen. Notably, Wagler and Kingston Flemings of Houston both scored over 40 points in their respective games. This occurrence marks the first instance since March 6, 1997, that two freshmen achieved this feat on the same day.
Final Thoughts
Wagler’s impressive performance not only highlights his potential but also emphasizes Illinois’ ability to thrive under pressure. With continued teamwork and toughness, the Fighting Illini look poised for further successes as the season progresses.
