The Fighting Illini begin the quest for their first National Title in program history Friday against the Drexel Dragons. The Illini have 2 All Americans in 1st team All American guard Ayo Dosunmu and 2nd team All American Center Kofi Cockburn. The dynamic duo leads the Illini but are surrounded by a talented supporting class that includes guards Andre Curbelo and Trent Frazier. The Illini have depth and with Cockburn in the middle present matchup problems for most teams. If the Illini can take care of the basketball and give consistent effort a Final Four appearance is definitely within their reach.

As for their opening round opponents the Drexel Dragons they come into the game with a 12-7 record as winners of the CAA tourney. Drexel is led in scoring and assists by guard Camren Wynter. The 6’2 junior averages 16.8 ppg and 5.3 assts while 42% from beyond the arc. Trent Frazier will most likely draw this matchup defensively for the Illini. Wynter is one of 4 Dragons scoring in double figures. The others include Zach Walton at 10.6 ppg, TJ Bickerstaff at 10.8 ppg, and James Butler at 12.9 ppg. The 6’8 Butler also leads Drexel in rebounding at 9.2rebs. Butler is going to have his hands full trying to guard Kofi Cockburn on the block. The Dragons shoot 37% as a team from three so defensive communication and driving them off the 3 pt line will be key for the Illini’s defense. 

Tip off for the Illini and the Dragons is scheduled for 12:15p CT on TBS