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The independent student newspaper at the University of Illinois since 1871

The Daily Illini
The independent student newspaper at the University of Illinois since 1871

The Daily Illini
The independent student newspaper at the University of Illinois since 1871

The Daily Illini
The independent student newspaper at the University of Illinois since 1871

The Daily Illini
James Kim

James Kim, Sports Editor

My name is James Kim and I’m a senior studying English with a minor in business. This is my third year with The Daily Illini and it’s been an amazing ride so far. When I joined in fall 2021, I began as a staff writer for the sports section where I covered women’s tennis. In spring 2022, I became an assistant sports editor and started covering soccer and Illinois men’s basketball. From spring 2023 onwards I’ve been working as the sports editor! In addition to being an Illini and Real Madrid fanatic, I also love watching movies and TV shows. If you have any questions about writing for The DI, you can reach me at my email below. I-L-L!

Coach Underwood congratulates fifth year guard #0 Terrence Shannon Jr on senior night.

‘It’s hard not to get emotional’: Illinois men’s basketball records historic 2023-24 championship season

By James Kim, Staff Writer • April 15, 2024
#3 Guard Marcus Domask during the first half Illinois exhibition match against Ottawa on Oct. 20.

No. 3 Illinois exits NCAA tournament following Elite 8 loss to No. 1 UConn

By James Kim, Sports Editor • March 30, 2024
Guard Terrence Shannon Jr. enters the game against Nebraska on Feb. 4. Terrence had a season high of 40 points in a game against Nebraska on March 16.

No. 3 Illinois men’s basketball gears up for Sweet 16 showdown against No. 2 Iowa State

By James Kim, Sports Editor • March 28, 2024
Fans at the State Farm Center cheer as the Illinois basketball team makes their introductions before facing Marquette on Nov. 14.

Best of CU | Best Sports Venue: State Farm Center

By James Kim, Sports Editor • March 28, 2024
Ian Lazer Nutting prepares a delicious meal at the downtown Champaign diner, The Space on March 2.

Best of CU | Best New Business: The Space

By James Kim, Sports Editor • March 28, 2024
Graduate student guard Marcus Domask goes for a layup against Colgate on Dec. 23.

No. 3 Illinois men’s basketball downs No. 11 Duquesne in second round of NCAA tournament

By James Kim, Sports Editor • March 23, 2024

‘We’re playing our best basketball:’ No. 3 Illinois kicks off NCAA tournament against No. 14 Morehead State

By James Kim, Sports Editor • March 21, 2024
Fifth year Terrence Shannon Jr. excitedly returns back to the Illinois bench after Purdue calls a timeout on Mar. 5.

No. 2 Illinois advances past No. 10 Ohio State in heated Big Ten quarterfinal

By James Kim, Sports Editor • March 15, 2024
Redshirt junior forward/center Dain Dainja goes for a lay up during the second half of a game against Iowa at the State Farm Center on Feb. 24.

Notes, player grades from No. 12 Illinois’ regular season finale win over Iowa

By James Kim and Conor Blount • March 12, 2024
Fifth year guard Terrence Shannon Jr. pumps up to start his senior night against Purdue on Tuesday.

Notes, player grades from No. 12 Illinois men’s basketball’s narrow loss to No. 3 Purdue

By Conor Blount and James Kim • March 6, 2024
Graduate student Marcus Domask trys to score against Purdue during the 1st half on Tuesday.

No. 12 Illinois men’s basketball falls short against No. 3 Purdue in top of Big Ten clash

By James Kim, Sports Editor • March 5, 2024
Senior Forward Coleman Hawkins asks for the ball before making a pass for the offense on Wednesday.

‘They’ve proven to be human at times’: No. 12 Illinois gears up for home finale against No. 3 Purdue

By James Kim, Sports Editor • March 5, 2024
Fifth year guard Terrence Shannon Jr. leaps in the air to attempt a layup against Minnesota on Wednesday. The Illini defeated the Golden Gophers by eight points at the State Farm Center.

No. 13 Illinois men’s basketball outshines Minnesota 105-97 in fiery Champaign clash

By James Kim, Sports Editor • February 28, 2024
Junior guard Luke Goode scans the ball from the flanks during an offensive surge against Iowa on Saturday.

‘We have a special team this year’: No. 12 Illinois looks to rebound at home against Iowa

By James Kim, Sports Editor • February 24, 2024
Fifth-year Terrence Shannon Jr. directs the Illini offense against Michigan on Feb. 13. Shannon led Illinois with 35 points in its loss to Penn State.

No. 12 Illinois men’s basketball suffers late collapse at Penn State

By James Kim, Sports Editor • February 21, 2024
Sophomore Ty Rodgers slam-dunks against Michigan on Tuesday.

No. 14 Illinois men’s basketball heads to Maryland in search of 10th Big Ten win of 2023-24

By James Kim, Sports Editor • February 17, 2024
Senior Forward Coleman Hawkins takes the court in the starting lineup against Michigan on Tuesday.

Notes, player grades from No. 14 Illinois men’s basketball’s 29-point win over Michigan

By Conor Blount and James Kim • February 14, 2024
Fifth year guard Terrance Shannon Jr. dribbles inside the Michigan defense on Tuesday.

Shannon drops 31 points, No. 14 Illinois men’s basketball dominates Michigan

By James Kim, Sports Editor • February 13, 2024
Graduate student forward Marcus Domask challenges the Nebraska defense in the first half on Sunday.

Notes, player grades from No. 14 Illinois’ overtime victory over Nebraska

By Conor Blount and James Kim • February 7, 2024
Guard Terrence Shannon Jr. jumps in a attempt to block a shot from Nebraska senior guard Keisei Tominaga during the second half of Sunday evenings game. After going into overtime the Illini defeated the Cornhuskers by 87-84.

No. 14 Illinois men’s basketball survives Nebraska in late overtime thriller

By James Kim, Sports Editor • February 4, 2024
Fifth Year Terrence Shannon Jr. makes a drive against Rutgers on Jan. 21.

Notes, player grades from No. 14 Illinois’ 87-75 away victory over Ohio State

By James Kim and Conor Blount • January 31, 2024
Fifth year guard Justin Harmon celebrates a successful 3-pointer for Illinois against Indiana on Saturday.

Notes, player grades from No. 10 Illinois’ 8-point victory over Indiana

By Conor Blount and James Kim • January 28, 2024
Senior Forward Coleman Hawkins drives down the court, setting up a jumper against Indiana on Saturday.

No. 10 Illinois men’s basketball comes out on top in heated rivalry clash with Indiana

By James Kim, Sports Editor • January 27, 2024
Graduate Student Forward Marcus Domask looking to make a pass during the second half against Maryland on Jan. 14.

Notes, player grades from No. 10 Illinois’ overtime loss away at Northwestern

By James Kim and Conor Blount • January 26, 2024
Fifth-year guard Justin Harmon keeps an intimidating game face on as Northwestern tries to score on Jan. 2.

No. 10 Illinois men’s basketball takes quick trip north for in-state clash against Northwestern

By James Kim, Sports Editor • January 24, 2024
Sophomore guard Ty Rodgers scoops the ball down low to remain possession against Maryland on Jan 14.

All eyes on March: Illini men’s basketball strives for it all in 2023-24

By James Kim, Sports Editor • January 23, 2024
Fifth-year guard Terrence Shannon Jr. marks his return with a dunk against Rutgers on Sunday.

Shannon scores 16 in return as No. 14 Illinois men’s basketball downs Rutgers in Champaign

By James Kim, Sports Editor • January 21, 2024
Fifth-year guard Terrence Shannon Jr, smiling to his coaches during warmup against Mizzou on Dec. 22 prior to being suspended from the team. As of Friday, Shannon is now permitted to return to play for Illinois.

Terrence Shannon Jr.’s restraining order approved, is eligible to return to men’s basketball

By James Kim, Sports Editor • January 19, 2024
Fifth Year Guard Marcus Domask dribbles the ball under pressure by Maryland defense on Sunday.

No. 10 Illinois menʼs basketball sinks to 9-point defeat at home against Maryland

By James Kim, Sports Editor • January 14, 2024
Sophomore Ty Rodgers calls for the ball in the second half against Colgate on Dec 17.

No. 10 Illinois men’s basketball welcomes Michigan State to Champaign for fourth Big Ten clash

By James Kim, Sports Editor • January 11, 2024
Forward Quincy Guerrier makes a huge 3 pointer in the last few minutes of the game against University of Missouri on Dec. 22.

Notes, player grades from No. 9 Illinois men’s basketball’s narrow loss to No. 1 Purdue

By Conor Blount and James Kim • January 6, 2024
Graduate student Marcus Domask attempting a free throw against Colgate on Dec. 17. Domask scored 32 points against Purdue on Friday.

Late comeback falls short for No. 9 Illinois in elite Big Ten clash against No. 1 Purdue

By James Kim, Sports Editor • January 5, 2024
Junior Forward Luke Goode attempting a three-point shot in the first half against Colgate on Dec. 17.

No. 9 Illinois men’s basketball returns to Big Ten play against in-state rivals Northwestern

By James Kim, Sports Editor • January 2, 2024
Sophomore Ty Rodgers holds onto the ball intensely trying to get around the Marquette defense on Nov. 14. Rodgers secured 15 rebounds against Fairleigh Dickinson on Friday.

Notes, player grades from No. 11 Illinoisʼ 33-point victory over Fairleigh Dickinson

By James Kim, Sports Editor • December 30, 2023
Redshirt Junior Dain Dainja blocks a shot during the second half against Colgate on Dec. 17. Dainja led Illinois in points with 19 against Fairleigh Dickinson on Friday.

No. 11 Illinois menʼs basketball dominates Fairleigh Dickinson 104-71 in final game of 2023

By James Kim, Sports Editor • December 29, 2023
Terrence Shannon sits on the bench before the Nov. 14 game vs. Marquette. Shannon was suspended from Illinois basketball on Thursday after being charged with rape.

Terrence Shannon Jr. suspended from Illinois menʼs basketball following rape charge

By James Kim, Sports Editor • December 28, 2023
Guard Terrence Shannon Jr. smiles as he sinks in a free throw in the first half of the Braggin’ Rights game against Mizzou on Friday night.

Shannon runs riot as No. 13 Illinois claims huge Bragginʼ Rights win over Missouri

By James Kim, Sports Editor • December 22, 2023
Guard/forward Ty Rodger jumps beneath the hoop for a layup against Oakland on Nov. 10. Illinois returns to the State Farm Center, Sunday to face off against Colgate.

No. 16 Illinois men’s basketball aims to bounce back against Colgate in Champaign return

By James Kim, Sports Editor • December 17, 2023
Senior forward Coleman Hawkins fakes a pass to his teammates in the first half of the game against Marquette on Nov. 14.

Notes, player grades from Illinois’ 86-79 road defeat to No. 17 Tennessee

By James Kim and Conor Blount • December 10, 2023
Guard Justin Harmon keeps the ball away from Eastern Illinois on Nov. 6.

Notes, player grades from No. 20 Illinois men’s basketball’s upset victory over No. 11 Florida Atlantic

By Conor Blount and James Kim • December 6, 2023
Guard/forward Marcus Domask considers what play he should take as Illinois approaches Oaklands hoop at the State Farm Center on Nov. 23.

Domask, Shannon drive No. 20 Illinois past No. 11 Florida Atlantic in Jimmy V Classic

By James Kim, Sports Editor • December 5, 2023
Guard/forward Luke Good goes for a layup against Marquette on Nov. 14.

No. 20 Illinois heads to Big Apple for Jimmy V Classic clash against No. 11 Florida Atlantic

By James Kim, Sports Editor • December 5, 2023
Guard Terrence Shannon Jr. holds position of the ball as Eastern Illinois guard Isaiah Griffin follows to defend on Nov. 6.

Notes, player grades from No. 24 Illinois’ Big Ten-opening victory over Rutgers

By James Kim and Conor Blount • December 3, 2023
Guard Terrence Shannon Jr. takes a moment to briefly stretch his arms on the court during a game against Eastern Illinois on Nov. 6.

‘We’re here to win’: No. 24 Illinois men’s basketball opens Big Ten campaign at Rutgers

By Ella Narag and James Kim • December 2, 2023
Sophomore guard Ty Rodgers drives up the court against Southern on Sunday.

Notes, player grades from No. 23 Illinois men’s basketball’s come from behind win over Valparaiso

By Conor Blount and James Kim • November 19, 2023
Guard Terrance Shannon Jr. sprints to the hoop as Friday nights game against Valparaiso second half takes takes place.

Shannon, Goode spark late surge for No. 23 Illinois in 23-point win over Valparaiso

By James Kim, Sports Editor • November 17, 2023
Guard/forward Marcus Domask looks for a way through Marquettes defense to get to the hoop during the second half of Monday nights game. The Golden Eagles defeated the Illini at the State Farm Center 71-64.

Notes, player grades from Illinois men’s basketball’s 71-64 defeat by No. 4 Marquette

By James Kim and Conor Blount • November 15, 2023
Guard Terrence Shannon Jr. passes the ball as Marquette surrounds him during the second half of Monday nights game.

No. 23 Illinois men’s basketball faces test against No. 4 Marquette in sold-out matchup

By James Kim, Sports Editor • November 14, 2023
Graduate Student Guard/Forward Quincy Guerrier attempts a dunk against the Oakland defense during the first half on Friday. Guerrier made the second most points with 13 during the encounter.

Notes, player grades from No. 25 Illinois men’s basketball’s hard-fought win over Oakland

By Conor Blount and James Kim • November 12, 2023
Forward/center Dain Dainja cuts through Oaklands defense to make a layup during the second half. The game ended in a 64-53 victory for Illinois.

No. 25 Illinois men’s basketball earns scrappy 64-53 win over Oakland

By James Kim, Sports Editor • November 10, 2023
Forward Dain Dainja during the first half Illinois exhibition match against Ottawa on Oct. 20, 2023. The first half of the game ended in a score of 59 for Illinois and 9 for Ottawa.

Notes, player grades from Illinois’ season-opening 28-point victory over Eastern Illinois

By James Kim and Conor Blount • November 7, 2023
Guard/forward Ty Rodgers pushes through Eastern Illinois defense during the first official game of the season on Monday night.

‘We’re excited to get started’: No. 25 Illinois opens 2023-24 season with Eastern Illinois clash

By James Kim, Sports Editor • November 6, 2023
Forward Coleman Hawkins during the first half rushes to get through Kansas center Hunter Dickinsons defense during Sundays exhibition match.

Notes, player grades from Illinoisʼ 82-75 exhibition upset over No. 1 Kansas

By Conor Blount and James Kim • October 30, 2023
Guard Terrance Shannon Jr rushes to get to the hoop through Kansas center Hunter Dickinson on Sunday night.

Shannon paves path against No. 1 Kansas, earns statement victory in Maui Strong Relief Matchup

By James Kim, Sports Editor • October 29, 2023
Forward Amani Hansberry keeps his eye on the ball during the second half of Illinois exhibition match against Ottawa on Friday. The second half concluded the game set against Ottawa 116-65 in favor of Illinois.

Notes, player grades from Illinois men’s basketball’s 51-point victory over Ottawa

By James Kim, Sports Editor • October 21, 2023
Guard Terrance Shannon Jr. rushes to the hoop as Northwestern begins to surround him on Feb. 23. Illinois will play against Ottawa Friday night at the State Farm Center.

No. 25 Illinois men’s basketball prepares to welcome Ottawa in first exhibition matchup of 2023-24

By James Kim, Sports Editor • October 20, 2023
Senior Goal Keeper, #1 Julia Cili throws the ball out to her teammates on Oct. 12. Illinois will attempt for a win against Nebraska this Sunday after loss from Michigan State.

Illini soccer loses early lead, drops penultimate Big Ten match to No. 14 Spartans

By James Kim, Sports Editor • October 20, 2023
Illinois basketball head coach Brad Underwood in the Ubben Basketball Complex on Monday.

‘All we’ve done is light the match again’: Underwood thanks fans, forecasts electric season

By Lisa Chasanov and James Kim • October 17, 2023
Illinois basketball head coach Brad Underwood during an interview with The Daily Illini in his office on Monday.

Q&A | Brad Underwood reflects on rejuvenating program, talks ins, outs of 2023-24

By James Kim and Lisa Chasanov • October 17, 2023
Junior Abby Lynch making eye contact with the ball and planning her next move to attack. Illinois will be attempting to break in a win on Sunday against Purdue.

Illinois soccer concedes last-second goal, falls short against No. 12 Wisconsin

By James Kim, Sports Editor • October 13, 2023
Forward Coleman Hawkins and guard Terrence Shannon Jr. watch the jumbotron prior to taking on the Michigan State Spartans at State Farm Center on Jan. 13. Hawkins and Shannon Jr. will play their final season this year.

‘We’ve got the best fans in the nation’: Shannon, Hawkins prepare for last dance with Illinois men’s basketball

By James Kim, Sports Editor • October 9, 2023
Head coach Brad Underwood speaks to the referees as the Illini takes on Rutgers at State Farm Center on Feb. 11. Underwood looks positively on the upcoming team to play during 2023-2024 season.

‘This is an ultra, ultra competitive group’: Underwood previews 2023-24 season for Illinois men’s basketball

By James Kim, Sports Editor • October 4, 2023
Senior goalkeeper Julia Cili securely holds the ball in a duel against Michigan on Sept. 24.

Illini soccer endures scoreless draw against Wildcats

By James Kim, Sports Editor • September 29, 2023
The Illini walk the field during post-game after beating Michigan 3-2. The Illini play against Northwestern this coming Thursday.

Illinois soccer travels to Evanston for in-state clash vs. Northwestern

By James Kim, Sports Editor • September 26, 2023
Senior goalkeeper Julia Cili blocks the ball. Cili has recorded a staggering 45 saves.

Illinois soccer faces huge test against No. 19 Michigan, hunts for 1st conference win

By James Kim, Sports Editor • September 24, 2023
Junior midfielder Sydney Stephens dribbles past Indiana defenders on Thursday.

‘A tale of two halves’: Illinois soccer drops Big Ten home opener in narrow loss to Indiana

By James Kim, Sports Editor • September 22, 2023
The Illini put their hands together on Sept. 9, 2022 during a match against Mizzou. The Illini seek to build up there performance as the season continues with their upcoming match against Indiana on Thursday.

‘The results will come if we just keep digging our heels in,’: Illinois prepares to host Indiana in first home Big Ten clash

By James Kim, Sports Editor • September 20, 2023
Forward Makena Silber rushes to keep the ball away from Grand Valley State on Apr. 2, 2022. Silber made her presence known during Sundays game against Iowa that ended in a draw.

Silber scores as Illinois soccer opens 2023 Big Ten campaign with draw against Iowa

By James Kim, Sports Editor • September 18, 2023
Forward Makena Silber and Head coach Janet Rayfield speak toe each other before playing in the senior day match against Rutgers on Oct. 23, 2021. Silber makes her return to Illini soccer after recovering from injury for her final season.

Silber leads Illini soccer in final season, leaves legacy of goal scoring, teamwork

By James Kim, Sports Editor • September 18, 2023
Midfielder Sydney Stephens focuses on her performance on the field against Loyola during a gloomy Sept. 11, 2023. The Illini secured a senior day victory against Pepperdine on Sunday.

Stephens calls game in Illinois soccer senior day thriller versus Pepperdine

By James Kim, Sports Editor • September 11, 2023
Midfielder Kendra Pasquale handles the ball by the net on on Sept. 11, 2022. The Illini will be facing off against Pepperdine in hopes of making a comeback on Sunday.

Illinois soccer looks to rebound against Pepperdine in return to Champaign

By James Kim, Sports Editor • September 9, 2023
The Illini and Mizzou fights for the ball on Sept. 9, 2022. Despite pressure pressed by the Illini at the end of Thursdays match against Missouri, the Illini were unsuccessful on securing the win.

Illinois soccer suffers 2nd straight defeat following Braggin’ Rights loss to Missouri

By James Kim, Sports Editor • September 8, 2023
Midfielder Sydney Stephens keeps the ball away from Mizzou on Sept. 9, 2022. The Illini will play Missouri on Thursday.

Illinois soccer to conclude 5-game road trip with Braggin’ Rights showdown against Missouri

By James Kim, Sports Editor • September 6, 2023
The Illini stand along the field at sunset on Sept. 9, 2022 during a game against Mizzou. The Illini suffered their first loss this season, ending their win-streak on Sunday.

Illinois soccer suffers first defeat of 2023 season in loss to Kentucky

By James Kim, Sports Editor • September 4, 2023
Junior Sydney Stephens runs to kick the ball away from Indiana State on Sept. 04, 2022. The Illini hits a win-streak on Thursday that has not been achieved since 2019.

Red-hot Illinois moves to 4 matches unbeaten with victory over Louisville

By James Kim, Sports Editor • September 1, 2023
Julia Cili runs between her team on Sept. 4, 2022 as the Illini prepares to face off against Indiana. The Illini will be facing off against Louisville on Thursday.

Illinois soccer searches for third win of season against winless Louisville

By James Kim, Sports Editor • August 30, 2023
Midfielder Kennedy Berschel faces of ISU on Aug. 18, 2023. The Illinis latest match on Sunday resulted in a draw with both teams not making a goal during the match.

Illinois soccer battles out scoreless draw versus Dayton, extends unbeaten streak

By James Kim, Sports Editor • August 28, 2023
Illinois soccer huddles on the field during a game against Missouri on Sept. 9.

Illinois soccer searches for 3rd straight victory with trip to Dayton

By James Kim, Sports Editor • August 26, 2023
The Illini rush to the field to face off against Minnesota on Oct. 23, 2022. On Thursday the Illini had a tight game against Xavier which ended in a 1-0 victory for the Illini.

Illinois soccer continues rolling with road upset over No. 17 Xavier

By James Kim, Sports Editor • August 24, 2023
Kicking off the school year with intramural sports on campus

Kicking off the school year with intramural sports on campus

By James Kim, Sports Editor • June 16, 2023
Guard Terrence Shannon Jr. gives directions to the rest of the team to make a play against Michigan on Mar. 2. On Wednesday, Shannon announced that he would return to Champaign for one more season.

Shannon withdraws from NBA draft, announces return to Illinois for 2023-24 season

By James Kim, Sports Editor • May 31, 2023
Illinois softball gathers around home to cheer after redshirt senior outfielder Danielle Davis hit a grand slam in the top of the third inning.

’We’re not gonna let you have it’: No. 12 Illinois softball upsets No. 5 Wisconsin in 1st round of Big Ten tournament

By James Kim, Sports Editor • May 10, 2023

Illinois women’s golf ends Big Ten drought with 1st title triumph in program history

By James Kim, Sports Editor • May 1, 2023

Illinois men’s basketball lands Oregon transfer forward Quincy Guerrier

By James Kim, Sports Editor • April 24, 2023
Senior guard Terrence Shannon Jr. during a time out in midst of a game against Northwestern on Feb. 23. On Wednesday, Shannon announced that he would return to Champaign for one more season.

Shannon declares for 2023 NBA draft following senior season at Illinois

By James Kim, Sports Editor • April 12, 2023
Sophomore RJ Melendez throws the ball during the game against Wisconsin on Jan. 17. Melendez will become the fourth player to enter the transfer portal in recent weeks.

RJ Melendez enters transfer portal after 2 seasons with Illinois

By James Kim, Sports Editor • April 3, 2023
orward Coleman Hawkins goes for a dunk during the first half of the Michigan game on Mar. 2. The Illini faced many challenges during this season, and despite solid performances, they met an early exit in the NCAA tournament.

‘A lot of ups and downs’: Illinois men’s basketball experiences 2022-23 season of early highs, late struggles

By James Kim, Sports Editor • March 29, 2023
Forward Coleman Hawkins exits the court during the last home game of the season on Mar. 2. Hawkins officially made his decision to return to Illinois on Wednesday, after withdrawing from the NBA Draft.

Coleman Hawkins declares for 2023 NBA draft following 3-year career at Illinois

By James Kim, Sports Editor • March 28, 2023
Guard Jayden Epps during a home game against Rutgers on Feb. 11, following a loss against Iowa on Feb. 4. Epps took to Twitter to announce his departure from the Illini and his entrance to the transfer portal.

Jayden Epps enters transfer portal after debut season with Illinois men’s basketball

By James Kim, Sports Editor • March 28, 2023
Junior guard RJ Melendez works his way down the court during a game against Wisconsin on Jan. 7. Despite a late run by Melendez and senior guard Terrence Shannon Jr. on Thursday, Illinois fell short to Arkansas, with a final score of 73-63.

Illinois men’s basketball suffers defeat against Arkansas in first round of NCAA tournament

By James Kim, Sports Editor • March 16, 2023
Freshman guard Skyy Clark dribbles the ball down the court during the second half against Kansas City on Nov. 11.

Skyy Clark enters transfer portal following extended absence from Illinois men’s basketball

By James Kim, Sports Editor • March 12, 2023
Senior guard Terrence Shannon Jr. shoves on through Michigans defense during the first half of the Illinis last home game of the season on Mar. 2. Shannon played great offensive against Penn State unfortunately the team was unable to secure the win and are now out of the Big Ten tournament.

Notes, player grades from Illinois’ early Big Ten tournament exit against Penn State

By James Kim and Carson Gourdie • March 9, 2023
Forward Coleman Hawkins aims to make a shot on Sunday when the Illini traveled to West Lafayette, Indiana, to take on the Purdue Boilermakers in the last game of the regular season. The Illini suffered a quick exit out of the Big Ten tournament with a loss to Penn State on Thursday in Chicago.

No. 7 Illinois men‘s basketball exits Big Ten tournament early following narrow second round loss to No. 10 Penn State

By James Kim, Sports Editor • March 9, 2023
Guard Sencire Harris runs to attempt to prevent Purdue from making it to the Illinis side of the court to make a score attempt during Sundays game. The University of Illinois Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball team travels to West Lafayette, Indiana, to take on the Purdue Boilermakers in the last game of the regular season. The Illini are tied for second place with six other teams in the Big Ten conference all boasting a record of 11-8. Purdue holds the top spot with 14-5.

Illinois men‘s basketball falls short against No. 5 Purdue in regular season finale despite late surge

By James Kim, Sports Editor • March 5, 2023
Guard Terrence Shannon Jr. gives directions to the rest of the team to make a play against Michigan on Mar. 2. On Wednesday, Shannon announced that he would return to Champaign for one more season.

Notes, player grades from Illinois men’s basketball’s double-overtime victory over Michigan

By James Kim, Drew Friberg and Carson Gourdie • March 3, 2023
Guard Terrance Shannon Jr. walks the court during the start of the second half of the game against Northwestern last evening. After an earlier injury leaving Shannon away from the court for the past two matches, Shannon came back swinging to defeat Northwestern this Thursday.

Shannon catapults Illinois men’s basketball past No. 21 Northwestern

By James Kim, Assistant Sports Editor • February 24, 2023
Freshman guard/forward Ty Rodgers pulls freshman guard Sencire Harris to the side after a foul around the start of the second half during last nights game. After Harris rough performance during the first half, his team helped get him back on track in order to make a comeback to defeat Northwestern.

Notes, player grades from Illinois men’s basketball’s electric comeback against No. 21 Northwestern

By James Kim, Drew Friberg and Carson Gourdie • February 24, 2023
Guard RJ Melendez executes a specialized handshake ending in a salute with assistant coach Tim Anderson before the start of last nights game. Melendez played with confidence throughout last nights game against Minnesota as significantly improving from his presence on the court earlier this season.

Notes, player grades from Illinois men’s basketball’s 9-point win over Minnesota

By James Kim, Carson Gourdie and Theo Gary • February 21, 2023
Guard/Forward Matthey Mayer slips through Minnesotas defense around the start of the second half of tonights game. Mayer led the Illini with constant scores against Minnesota bouncing back from the defeat by Indiana on Saturday for the Illini.

Illinois men’s basketball bounces back in Champaign with 78-69 victory over Minnesota

By James Kim, Assistant Sports Editor • February 20, 2023
Guard/Forward Ty Rodgers takes on the Nebraska Cornhuskers at State Farm Center on January 31, 2023. Despite losing to Penn State Rodgers played significantly well on Tuesday.

Player grades from Illinois’ second loss of season to Penn State

By Drew Friberg, James Kim and Carson Gourdie • February 15, 2023
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