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The Fighting Illini have put together quite a season thus far as they captured the team’s first Big Ten tourney Championship since the 2005 season on Sunday but now the sights are set on something bigger a National Title. The journey will not be easy and here we take a look at how it may unfold. 

The Illini are the top seed in the tourney’s Midwest region and should easily dispatch of first round opponent Drexel. The Dragons are just 12-7 and won’t be able to match up with the Illini’s physicality or athleticism. Round 2 however will not be as easy. 

Whether the Illini get Georgia Tech or Loyola in the 2nd round both teams pose some tough matchup problems although nothing the Illini can’t overcome. Loyola would have a chip on their shoulder as the less thought of upstart team out of Chicago. The Ramblers are just a couple of years removed from a final four run and have a quality big in Sr. Cameron Krutwig. The 6’9 255 pound Krutwig averages 15.0 ppg, 7 rebs, and 3 assists. Loyola has 7 players that average between 7 and 15 pts.

Georgia Tech just won the ACC tourney championship and feature ACC player of the year Moses Wright. The 6’9 Wright averages 17.4ppg and 8 rebs. The heart and soul of Georgia Tech however is PG Jose Alvarado. Alvarado averages 15.3 ppg, 4.1 asst, and 3 steal. Alvarado would be a challenge that the Illini’s Trent Frazier would love to take on.

Farther down the bracket the Illini could run into the Oklahoma State and possible overall #1 pick in the upcoming NBA draft Cade Cunningham. OK St. has been playing their best basketball of the season as of late and may want payback on Illini coach Brad Underwood for the one and done treatment he gave them before taking the Illinois job. 

Houston and West Virginia could also pose possible threats to the Illini as well. However considering this tournament is a one game elimination one just focusing on the game at hand will be the key. This Illini team has shown a mental toughness and fortitude throughout the season that will serve them well as they attempt a run at history. That run begins Friday at 12:15p CT on TBS

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