Up to 7 on Torvik (up from 10)*

Posted by biclops on January 9, 2026, 19:05:06, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now The way you are, it's not your fault, you knew that The way we were, so young and caught up in it

Is Undy talking about Carey Booth here?

Posted by Tuscy on January 9, 2026, 14:18:54, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

https://www.instagram.com/p/DTPA1jsDU4M/?igsh=cm10dXN4bWtqZ2Vk Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now "I wouldn't mind the DP here." - jumpingdan

This shot chart is KenPorn

Posted by GMAW on January 9, 2026, 10:51:42, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Our defense has been so much better since Nebraska. Season fucking back on.*

Posted by Warrin'_Illini on January 9, 2026, 9:56:00, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now You cannot lose games in the NFL and still win.

Did we talk about Wagler moving up to 11th on The Athletic’s big board?

Posted by Carl Spackler on January 9, 2026, 6:49:50, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6928271/2026/01/07/nba-draft-top-100-prospects-dybantsa-boozer-peterson/ Tomi at 60. Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

This Iowa game is really big if we’re to see a 3 seed*

Posted by opossum jenkins on January 9, 2026, 6:47:36, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

Lost the last two second halves. Fire Underwood!*

Posted by biclops on January 8, 2026, 21:45:05, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now The way you are, it's not your fault, you knew that The way we were, so young and caught up in it

Split the next two on the road plz*

Posted by Blazer on January 8, 2026, 21:36:41, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

Ignore if you don’t want to hear about KenPom…

Posted by OB25 on January 8, 2026, 21:35:04, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Overall rank stays at #9, offense stays at #3, defense improves from #20 to #18. Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

8x-5x!*

Posted by ATL on January 8, 2026, 21:29:37, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now “We are old and tired and just want to be taken care of.” - Republican voter, Dec. 2024.

Gamblers on edge*

Posted by Ron McDon on January 8, 2026, 21:28:01, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

8x-5x plz*

Posted by biclops on January 8, 2026, 21:23:41, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now The way you are, it's not your fault, you knew that The way we were, so young and caught up in it

This is a lazy shit 2nd half.*

Posted by voiceofreason on January 8, 2026, 21:16:56, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

6 point swing on Tomi’s missed 3 followed by Buttgers made 3 to bring the deficit down to 20.

Posted by DocWalk20 on January 8, 2026, 21:16:51, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Point shaving! Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

Mirk is 100% on post-whistle practice 3s.

Posted by tvillini on January 8, 2026, 21:13:28, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Guy just went shoulder down and ran into Z*

Posted by Blazer on January 8, 2026, 21:07:56, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

Kylan didn't touch it, but they won't overturn the call

Posted by IlliniSax05 on January 8, 2026, 21:05:49, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Bulls game canceled due to condensation on the floor. At least everyone got their free Illini hats!*

Posted by biclops on January 8, 2026, 21:01:43, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now The way you are, it's not your fault, you knew that The way we were, so young and caught up in it

Every game it seems like Keaton is having a quiet game and you look up and he’s got 15*

Posted by Blazer on January 8, 2026, 20:58:06, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

Lazy 10 minutes to start the 2nd half. Brad not happy*

Posted by OWWDig on January 8, 2026, 20:57:49, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

ColeHawk G League triple double *

Posted by jdl on January 8, 2026, 20:57:36, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

we honestly get stripped a ton in the lane

Posted by snipes824 on January 8, 2026, 20:56:28, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

happens to mirk and andrej most, but kylan and tomi too. Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

Enjoy the league kid *

Posted by biclops on January 8, 2026, 20:53:00, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now The way you are, it's not your fault, you knew that The way we were, so young and caught up in it

LOL we fouled Rutgers about 8 times and then they call Kylan for a clean steal *

Posted by jdl on January 8, 2026, 20:48:57, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

All the shit they let Rutgers get away with and they call that on Kylan

Posted by IlliniSax05 on January 8, 2026, 20:48:39, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Wagler has to pass that out when get stuck like that*

Posted by Mrap24 on January 8, 2026, 20:43:14, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

Buttgers is this bad even with a sympathy whistle that allows them to mug every ball handler*

Posted by OB25 on January 8, 2026, 20:40:08, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

Mcd really missing a chance to give a McDouble away if they miss 2 a second time. *

Posted by assassin on January 8, 2026, 20:39:20, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now Brandon Schrock of Laredo, Texas, told the federal government that his employer was “poop,” and his occupation was “pooper.”

Do people really put cottage cheese in pasta?*

Posted by ISeeDeadHawkeyes on January 8, 2026, 20:34:44, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

Matching HT with the cfp is frustrating *

Posted by John Coctostan on January 8, 2026, 20:30:31, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

If a 10-0 run is a kill shot, what’s a 20-0 run?*

Posted by biclops on January 8, 2026, 20:26:38, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now The way you are, it's not your fault, you knew that The way we were, so young and caught up in it

No matter the opponent or if it’s football or basketball, never take a BigTen beat down for granted*

Posted by OB25 on January 8, 2026, 20:24:08, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

That ruled.*

Posted by Toonces on January 8, 2026, 20:22:29, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now Legitimately bronchial.

Look at us going 2 for 1 here *

Posted by jdl on January 8, 2026, 20:20:18, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

Love that Brad figured out this timeout usage*

Posted by OB25 on January 8, 2026, 20:20:15, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

Rutgers is putrid*

Posted by Mrap24 on January 8, 2026, 20:20:06, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

Love that we always look to take that TO there. So good*

Posted by John Coctostan on January 8, 2026, 20:19:55, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

Kill shot *

Posted by assassin on January 8, 2026, 20:19:41, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now Brandon Schrock of Laredo, Texas, told the federal government that his employer was “poop,” and his occupation was “pooper.”

Full body contact. No block. Lol. *

Posted by assassin on January 8, 2026, 20:17:21, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now Brandon Schrock of Laredo, Texas, told the federal government that his employer was “poop,” and his occupation was “pooper.”

Foul on Brad*

Posted by Blazer on January 8, 2026, 20:16:08, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

brick city. thankfully rutgers is bad bad*

Posted by snipes824 on January 8, 2026, 20:12:13, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

The leeway the refs are giving Butgers on the defensive end is something*

Posted by Ron McDon on January 8, 2026, 20:11:28, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now

We actually look kinda not great.*

Posted by ISeeDeadHawkeyes on January 8, 2026, 20:11:10, in reply to "Illini Basketball vs. Buttgers Pre-Game and Game Thread (Thursday 7:30pm on BTN)"

Previous Message Thank the lord that Steve Pikiell has come back down to earth. After Rutgers' underperforming season last year, Rutgers is truly in the toilet this year. They are 183 in the NET. They are 8-7 overall, but 0-6 in Q1 and Q2 games. They are 1-3 in the Big Ten with a lone win at home (by 3) over lowly Oregon. This is a Q4 game for Illinois. This is the lowest Q4 game that Illinois will play from here on out (if NET numbers hold). Illinois should beat this team. We are favored by 21.5. Students aren't back from break yet, so Krush won't be there, but that shouldn't matter. For the Southern game, the Hall was pretty full up with fans, but never got loud because there was never really a reason. Tomorrow night should be the same. And if not, I hope the fans get up and get loud. I'll be there to help. Notes from Brad's PC today: -Felt good with Penn State and the good start there -Impressed with Wagler and Mirk staying in the game mentally and hanging in despite foul trouble -Didn't shoot the ball well, but found a way to win -Rutgers..."typical gritty Rutgers team"...good at offensive rebounding -Rutgers will press, play zone, man, throw a lot at you, and rebound a ton if you let them -Happy with Big Z and the work he's done with Fletch to get his leg stronger, added 25 lbs and is now physically stronger and doesn't get fatigued as easily, confidence for Big Z has gone up due to this -Feels Cam C is doing a good job communicating defensive needs to players now -Importance against Rutgers is to withstand their "body blows"...keep doing your job ever possession, match their effort (especially on the boards) -Jake Davis is doing "everything right" at this point...plays hard, confident, tough, smart, does everything the coaches ask -Scoring balance is really good right now (and hard to do)...we're making teams defend us differently right now due to our balance -Mirk has gotten way better defensively since November, mental toughness growing as he gets more experience -Difference from Europe to US is in Europe they get to do a ton of handchecking and they can't get away with that here -Ty is coming off the flu, doing some light participation in practice (but not full on), making positive gains and regaining strength in his leg, working hard...still taking it day by day -Coaching international players is fun (smashing guitars, talking Formula 1 racing, learning new swear words, listening to new music)...loves their passion and competitiveness -Tomi...people scheme him now and that's part of his "struggles" this year...he's at the top of other teams' scouting reports now