IU Basketball vs. Illinois: Five Key Takeaways from Their Defeat

Indiana University (IU) basketball faced a tough loss against the University of Illinois on Sunday, falling 71-51 at the State Farm Center. This significant defeat highlighted several key aspects of the game worth examining.

Five Key Takeaways from IU Basketball’s Defeat to Illinois

1. IU’s Struggles on Offense

The Hoosiers experienced enormous difficulties in their offensive play. They recorded a season-low 51 points and averaged only 0.901 points per possession, marking it as one of their least productive outings this season.

• IU shot just 6-for-24 from three-point range.
• This was the fourth instance this season where IU made six or fewer three-pointers.

Darian DeVries acknowledged that the team had some quality possessions but failed to capitalize on good opportunities.

2. Defensive Rebounding Issues

Defensive rebounding has consistently been a challenge for IU, particularly against larger teams in the Big Ten. Against Illinois, they allowed the Fighting Illini to secure 41.7% of their missed shots.

• Illinois capitalized on 15 offensive rebounds for 17 second-chance points.
• This was the second-highest offensive rebounding percentage against IU this season.

Recent history showed that Michigan State achieved better results with a 48.1% offensive rebounding rate against IU.

3. Lamar Wilkerson’s Consistent Performance

Despite the loss, senior guard Lamar Wilkerson continued to shine for the Hoosiers. He scored 21 points, shooting 8-for-14 from the field and 3-for-3 at the free-throw line.

• Wilkerson is averaging 90.1% at the free-throw line and 37.9% on three-pointers in Big Ten games.
• He has scored 20 or more points in ten of Indiana’s 15 conference games this season.

4. Nick Dorn’s Offensive Decline

Nick Dorn’s performance has significantly dropped in recent games. After an impressive stretch, he has only scored 18 points in four games, while shooting 4-for-26 from beyond the arc.

• In the loss to Illinois, Dorn managed just one point on 0-for-5 shooting in 33 minutes.
• His overall shooting percentage remains solid at 38.6%, but his Big Ten performance has dipped to 35.6%.

5. Illinois’ Championship Potential

Illinois demonstrated their strength as contenders for the national championship, boasting a record of 21-5 and 12-3 in the Big Ten. Their current ranking of No. 5 in KenPom reflects a strong team.

• Brad Underwood is in his ninth season and might be coaching his strongest team yet.
• The Fighting Illini exhibit a formidable offense, excellent size, and solid defense.

With a standout roster featuring players like Keaton Wagler and Kylan Boswell, Illinois could be a Final Four team this season.

This defeat serves as a crucial point for IU as they navigate the remainder of the season, aiming for improvements and a shot at the NCAA tournament.