15. Illinois (2-0)
The basketball program at Illinois has taken a definite step forward under Brad Underwood’s leadership, coming fresh off another trip to the Big Dance last year. Him and his staff have constantly found talent to compete and went about that a different way this season, stockpiling a certain international feel on this roster. Judging by the opening week, what’s he done so far has been solid maneuvering.
A few players weren’t available for the season opener, but the Illini still thrived on Monday, winning 113-55 over Jackson State. Both Ben Humrichous and Tomislav Ivisic had 21 points while David Mirkovic added a double-double (19 points, 14 rebounds) in his debut. Things went just as fruitfully late in the week, as Illinois topped Florida Gulf Coast 113-70 on Friday night. Kylan Boswell stood out with 31 points and 10 rebounds, Mirkovic had another double-double, and the Illini dominated inside the arc for a second straight game.
Returners like Boswell and Humrichous have shown out already and have heavy expectations, but the new flair on this roster can certainly seen, and that includes limited work from Andrej Stojakovic. Illinois’ offense truly shined against weaker opponents to kickstart his season, though the trial by fire comes sooner rather than later. Illinois hosts a ranked Texas Tech squad early next week and really has a chance to prove that this new team can be a difference maker at the national level.