Go Illini!

Nice little article on Jeff Jordan in the Post-Dispatch this morning...

"The 6-foot-1 guard arrived at Illinois two years ago as the country's most celebrated walk-on. He was more a conversation piece than an expected contributor. He now has the potential to be a factor in his biggest game.

Jordan played significant minutes off the bench in place of Chester Frazier at the Big Ten tournament and despite nominal statistics was considered a bright spot. With Frazier out of tonight's game, that role will be magnified.

"He was very positive in both games and gave us a great energy boost and defensive lift,'' coach Bruce Weber said. "He pushed the ball against Michigan and was in the game for most of our key run.''"

I can't wait for the Illini to take on the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers tonight in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. I have not seen one "college basketball expert" pick Illinois to win. I know this is that vaunted 5-12 seed pairing, but come on. I know WKentucky beat Louisvill, but that was EARLY in the season. Illinois pounded Missouri (early too I know), but Missouri is better than Western Kentucky and Illinois also beat Purdue TWICE, and won several Big 10 games on the road. I know they don't have Chester Frazier, who is the definition of a Fighting Illini, but give these guys some credit. Mike Davis was second team All Big 10 and one of the most improved players in the COUNTRY, Trent Meachem is a leader and a 3-point specialist. I think Coach Weber will have these Illini ready for tonight.

Prediction: Illinoi 68-Western Kentucky 56