Things a blind sea captain might say?*

Posted by SurfTheBoneyard on January 31, 2026, 16:21:46, in reply to "Sounds like Mast is in bad shape "

Previous Message Fred Hoiberg says Rienk Mast had to go to the ER after getting home from Michigan due to severe dehydration. If he can get through tomorrow, he’ll be good to go for Sunday. Says he’s lost a ton of weight. https://x.com/bartecki_jake/status/2017288674887553117?s=46&t=Z2WDeGTY1oiKv3V21L4QWw Sky Marshal of the Luftwaffle “Surf is just a national treasure.” — Jackie

Anybody see what's up with the other guy that was hurt?*

Posted by JFG on January 30, 2026, 16:56:29, in reply to "Sounds like Mast is in bad shape "

Previous Message Fred Hoiberg says Rienk Mast had to go to the ER after getting home from Michigan due to severe dehydration. If he can get through tomorrow, he’ll be good to go for Sunday. Says he’s lost a ton of weight. https://x.com/bartecki_jake/status/2017288674887553117?s=46&t=Z2WDeGTY1oiKv3V21L4QWw

30 points, minimum. *

Posted by ijustkrushalot on January 30, 2026, 15:42:38, in reply to "Sounds like Mast is in bad shape "

Previous Message Fred Hoiberg says Rienk Mast had to go to the ER after getting home from Michigan due to severe dehydration. If he can get through tomorrow, he’ll be good to go for Sunday. Says he’s lost a ton of weight. https://x.com/bartecki_jake/status/2017288674887553117?s=46&t=Z2WDeGTY1oiKv3V21L4QWw

SAME - I was like "He looks like a Bond Villain" *….

Posted by aimlessillini on January 30, 2026, 15:20:16, in reply to "Mirko’s parents were at the game. His dad…."

Previous Message well I wouldn’t be surprised if that dude stacked bodies during the war. Would.not.ask… https://x.com/gwizzy12/status/2017298873719435531?s=20 Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

I thought the same thing...LOL*

Posted by Tooldresser on January 30, 2026, 15:15:52, in reply to "Mirko’s parents were at the game. His dad…."

Previous Message well I wouldn’t be surprised if that dude stacked bodies during the war. Would.not.ask… https://x.com/gwizzy12/status/2017298873719435531?s=20 Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

I’ve wondered how the Balkan vibes work when you initially bring these kids in.

Posted by Carl Spackler on January 30, 2026, 14:44:10, in reply to "Mirko’s parents were at the game. His dad…."

And if guys like Mirk’s dad look at some of these kids on the other side with disdain. Previous Message well I wouldn’t be surprised if that dude stacked bodies during the war. Would.not.ask… https://x.com/gwizzy12/status/2017298873719435531?s=20 Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

I thought those jerseys were beneath them. And really any BT team.

Posted by Warrin'_Illini on January 30, 2026, 14:03:13, in reply to "Also, Washington is no longer the Huskies. Now they're the Dawgs. :-)) *"

This is serious business. Previous Message Please pay attention to us!!! You cannot lose games in the NFL and still win.

Well, it also was only a 27 game regular season, then it became 30, now 31. 20-7 looks good *

Posted by bucktownillini on January 30, 2026, 13:30:25, in reply to "Thinking back to the days when we used to look towards 20 wins as a tourney lock"

Previous Message and how there were many years we were counting the victories well into February/early March. Just get to 20 was the thinking... And here we are at the end of January with 18 wins. It is such a good time to be an Illini. I don't want to take that for granted. Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

Fire Underwood! Second round Brad! Nepotism!*

Posted by GMAW on January 30, 2026, 9:55:47, in reply to "Thinking back to the days when we used to look towards 20 wins as a tourney lock"

Previous Message and how there were many years we were counting the victories well into February/early March. Just get to 20 was the thinking... And here we are at the end of January with 18 wins. It is such a good time to be an Illini. I don't want to take that for granted. Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

That's a actually a really good lineup

Posted by Blazer on January 30, 2026, 13:22:39, in reply to "Article on how Illinois is the top program for former players doing well elsewhere."

Locker room and chemistry nightmare, but a solid roster Previous Message This would make a really good team if all together. Didn't realize we had that many former players actively playing elsewhere https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/college-basketball-transfer-portal-top-players-at-new-schools-illinois-north-carolina/ Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

Had no idea White was playing that well at KU. Or that Miller was at Gonzaga.*

Posted by EffinIllini on January 30, 2026, 9:31:22, in reply to "Article on how Illinois is the top program for former players doing well elsewhere."

Previous Message This would make a really good team if all together. Didn't realize we had that many former players actively playing elsewhere https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/college-basketball-transfer-portal-top-players-at-new-schools-illinois-north-carolina/ Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

Fascinating article I always like Hansberry.*

Posted by gullit on January 30, 2026, 9:10:03, in reply to "Article on how Illinois is the top program for former players doing well elsewhere."

Previous Message This would make a really good team if all together. Didn't realize we had that many former players actively playing elsewhere https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/college-basketball-transfer-portal-top-players-at-new-schools-illinois-north-carolina/ Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

It stinks that so many have left, but it is a good indication that our coaches...

Posted by shua on January 30, 2026, 8:49:57, in reply to "Article on how Illinois is the top program for former players doing well elsewhere."

Amazing watching how quickly he is blossoming*

Posted by JeffFrank on January 30, 2026, 13:05:59, in reply to "I think we are watching the greatest Illini player of all time. "

Previous Message We’ll never know for sure since he will only be here for 1 year. He is just so… silky… effortless… smart… composed. I recognize the gravity of what I said. I’m comfortable with it.

A lot of recency bias here, but there is a non-long shot possibility this becomes accurate*

Posted by Blazer on January 30, 2026, 13:02:38, in reply to "I think we are watching the greatest Illini player of all time. "

Previous Message We’ll never know for sure since he will only be here for 1 year. He is just so… silky… effortless… smart… composed. I recognize the gravity of what I said. I’m comfortable with it.

I'm too supersticious to participate in this dicussion right now.

Posted by OWWDig on January 30, 2026, 11:01:05, in reply to "I think we are watching the greatest Illini player of all time. "

I'm just trying to enjoy each game and moment. So much fun to watch. Previous Message We’ll never know for sure since he will only be here for 1 year. He is just so… silky… effortless… smart… composed. I recognize the gravity of what I said. I’m comfortable with it.

No one year player can be the greatest Illini of all time

Posted by ISeeDeadHawkeyes on January 30, 2026, 10:10:47, in reply to "I think we are watching the greatest Illini player of all time. "

For any definition other than "most successful in the NBA" Previous Message We’ll never know for sure since he will only be here for 1 year. He is just so… silky… effortless… smart… composed. I recognize the gravity of what I said. I’m comfortable with it.

Man...Derek Harper and Nick Anderson weren't too shabby*

Posted by LWillhite on January 30, 2026, 9:47:59, in reply to "I think we are watching the greatest Illini player of all time. "

Previous Message We’ll never know for sure since he will only be here for 1 year. He is just so… silky… effortless… smart… composed. I recognize the gravity of what I said. I’m comfortable with it.

I tried to suggest this after Purdue. I don't know if I put him 1 but the conversation should happen

Posted by CanHartlebHireSnider on January 30, 2026, 9:46:17, in reply to "I think we are watching the greatest Illini player of all time. "

Senior year Terrance Shannon was the most overwhelmingly impressive player on both ends

Posted by OB25 on January 30, 2026, 9:43:55, in reply to "I think we are watching the greatest Illini player of all time. "

This version of Wagler from the last couple weeks is the best we’ve had offensively when it comes to feeling like that he alone can damn near guarantee a quality shot for either himself or a teammate on every possession - and usually just need some basic pick and roll action to do so. Would need to see how the league adjusts before making too grand of a proclamation though. Previous Message We’ll never know for sure since he will only be here for 1 year. He is just so… silky… effortless… smart… composed. I recognize the gravity of what I said. I’m comfortable with it. When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

Difficult to judge when comparing 1 season to 3-4 season players.

Posted by EffinIllini on January 30, 2026, 9:35:07, in reply to "I think we are watching the greatest Illini player of all time. "

But certainly a no-doubt best freshman season ever, right? Previous Message We’ll never know for sure since he will only be here for 1 year. He is just so… silky… effortless… smart… composed. I recognize the gravity of what I said. I’m comfortable with it.

I think Frank Williams measures up pretty well.

Posted by memyselfandillini on January 30, 2026, 9:27:20, in reply to "I think we are watching the greatest Illini player of all time. "

maybe not his range, but his defense, passing and driving were all as good or better. Previous Message We’ll never know for sure since he will only be here for 1 year. He is just so… silky… effortless… smart… composed. I recognize the gravity of what I said. I’m comfortable with it.

What's kind of wild is that we got him for pennies too

Posted by ijustkrushalot on January 30, 2026, 8:40:25, in reply to "I think we are watching the greatest Illini player of all time. "

Deron was dominant offensively and defensively and the 3rd overall pick. Keaton is still behind that

Posted by Orangeillini on January 30, 2026, 8:33:59, in reply to "I think we are watching the greatest Illini player of all time. "

for now. Previous Message We’ll never know for sure since he will only be here for 1 year. He is just so… silky… effortless… smart… composed. I recognize the gravity of what I said. I’m comfortable with it.

Honestly I’m glad he’s one and done and we won’t get outbid by Kansas or Kentucky or whoever.

Posted by nash on January 30, 2026, 7:23:19, in reply to "I think we are watching the greatest Illini player of all time. "

Brad just says shit sometimes*

Posted by CWR10 on January 30, 2026, 8:38:57, in reply to "This is pretty wild after the ‘Ben is our highest graded defender’ scolding from last year"

Previous Message https://x.com/thefieldof68/status/2017100066985513425?s=61&t=obkYTPkbGlNfrGoozxL-mg Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

Undy is not only a great coach but burgeoning stand-up talent.*

Posted by Warrin'_Illini on January 30, 2026, 8:38:37, in reply to "This is pretty wild after the ‘Ben is our highest graded defender’ scolding from last year"

Previous Message https://x.com/thefieldof68/status/2017100066985513425?s=61&t=obkYTPkbGlNfrGoozxL-mg Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska. You cannot lose games in the NFL and still win.

nm

Posted by IlliniSax05 on January 30, 2026, 8:19:24, in reply to "This is pretty wild after the ‘Ben is our highest graded defender’ scolding from last year"

he’s playing really well*

Posted by memyselfandillini on January 29, 2026, 22:32:02, in reply to "I feel like Mirk gets crapped on early every gamethread here then puts up a great line as a true FR*"

Previous Message Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

ooo

Posted by biclops on January 29, 2026, 22:25:59, in reply to "I feel like Mirk gets crapped on early every gamethread here then puts up a great line as a true FR*"

Also, I think that was a good opponent to play as prep for the Nebraska game.

Posted by OB25 on January 29, 2026, 22:21:08, in reply to "I feel like Mirk gets crapped on early every gamethread here then puts up a great line as a true FR*"

Good to get a reminder of how you need to battle against a big, physical team after things came pretty easily against Purdue. Previous Message Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska. When something is happening, young people like to say it’s “lit.”

He’s a disaster with the ball most of the time, but when he’s around the rim and shooting

Posted by voiceofreason on January 29, 2026, 22:20:21, in reply to "I feel like Mirk gets crapped on early every gamethread here then puts up a great line as a true FR*"

3s, he’s great. Turnover waiting to happen on his slow drives and posts. I will say that floater he sank tonight was impressive for a dude his size. Previous Message Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

We’re gonna need to build around him next year. Run stuff through him*

Posted by opossum jenkins on January 29, 2026, 22:19:42, in reply to "I feel like Mirk gets crapped on early every gamethread here then puts up a great line as a true FR*"

Previous Message Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

Plus Z 0-3 too. Ooof*

Posted by Blazer on January 29, 2026, 22:17:07, in reply to "Tomi 1-8 from 3 tonight. I think the 7 misses were all off the front iron.*"

Previous Message Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

would have been much less comfortable without Ben's 4-6 from 3*

Posted by Orangeillini on January 29, 2026, 22:16:41, in reply to "Wagler, Mirkovic, and Humrichous *"

Previous Message Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

I love Mirk. The hair, the running, the wide stance shots, the spin moves.

Posted by illini on January 29, 2026, 22:16:32, in reply to "Wagler, Mirkovic, and Humrichous *"

Mirk went toe to toe with Steinbach and did a good job bottling him up when they were matched up*

Posted by Blazer on January 29, 2026, 22:16:02, in reply to "Wagler, Mirkovic, and Humrichous *"

Previous Message Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

The Ken was ANGRY my friends*

Posted by Ron McDon on January 29, 2026, 22:15:37, in reply to "Down to 6 in KenPom*"

Previous Message Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

Looks like the defense fell a few spots *

Posted by biclops on January 29, 2026, 22:15:22, in reply to "Down to 6 in KenPom*"

Previous Message Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska. I won't let you down So please don't give me up

Shot badly from FT line and 3 point line

Posted by jdl on January 29, 2026, 22:16:41, in reply to "Ugly win, but workmanlike*"

Yeah, happy with that. Nice to win a rock fight.*

Posted by voiceofreason on January 29, 2026, 22:12:55, in reply to "Ugly win, but workmanlike*"

Previous Message Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

Is this the first year of 18 big ten games? Why did they go down from 20?*

Posted by Mrap24 on January 29, 2026, 22:18:21, in reply to "Jdl can we get the giant ceremonial lock out?*"

Previous Message Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.

Can't have a lock in January can we? *

Posted by jdl on January 29, 2026, 22:12:47, in reply to "Jdl can we get the giant ceremonial lock out?*"

Previous Message Previous Message A bit of discussion on Washington from the Purdue thread, so I'll borrow some of that and add some more. Washington is currently 60 in the Net. They are 1-6 in Q1 matchups, but other than a 17 point loss at home to MSU, they've stayed within 10 points on all their Q1 losses (including @Purdue and @Nebraska). Translation? Wouldn't be out of the norm to expect a closely contested game tomorrow night. They are without their key guy Desmond Claude, and that's a big reason they've struggled. They are led in points and rebounds by their freshman forward from Germany, Hans Steinbach (averaging 17.5 points and 11 rebounds). He has won BT freshman of the week twice (for comparison, Wagler has won it 4 times and Mirk 2 times). They also have a pretty good guard in Zoom Diallo...he is a three point threat somewhat, as is Yates (another guard). For those of you under a rock, Illinois is the toast of the town right now (although Purdue's loss at IU last night might take the shine off a tiny bit). We are currently 6th in the NET, and poised for a huge revenge matchup against Nebraska in Lincoln on Sunday. However, as noted, with Washington's ability to hang around against good teams, a loss in focus could make Thursday scary. Play tough out of the gate. Lock down Steinbach. Get a big lead. Play the bench and rest our guys that will only have a two day turnaround to play Nebraska.