I wanted to write something after a win, so that is why I’m posting tonight. Unfortunately, I did not watch the game. I had a meeting at school, and I forgot to record it. Yes, a bonehead play. Anyway, if you want to talk about a desperation game, this was it. We have had the lead in many games this year. Maryland, Arizona, Xavier, Michigan, and Michigan State were all winnable games. Yes, that is 5 games. I’m glad to see we finally put a team away. And, it wasn’t at home.
I’m still very concerned/mystified about our lineup. I/m not sure if Weber has figured this team out yet. And honestly, I don’t think any less of him because of it. This team is incredibly hard to figure out. There has been talk over the past few weeks that the Illini don’t have a leader. We don’t have that go to guy who can seal the deal in some of these close games. I thought for a while that Jamar Smith could be that guy, but he has faded the past couple games. Chester Frazier is way too erratic to be counted on. Warren Carter and Brian Randle let their talent go to waste on some nights. Shawn Pruitt doesn’t get the ball enough to lead. Trent Meacham is not getting the minutes. Although, he might very soon. Surprisingly, Rich McBride has been our most consistent performer over the past couple games and playing with some emotion. Who said you can’t teach an old dog new tricks.
I still say this team can go places, but they need to start upsetting teams and winning winnable road games. Whether or not that means we need to find a leader remains to be seen. I’m just glad we’ve got this convincing road win right before playing Wisconsin on Saturday.
