CHAMPAIGN — Effort rarely has been Illinois’ stumbling block this season. When it has — like Malcolm Hill thought it was on the defensive end after losing at Purdue by 23 — he spoke up.
John Groce appreciated Hill’s stance. The senior guard’s voice, the Illini coach said, means a lot in the locker room.
Groce hasn’t criticized his team’s effort, either. Even in a trio of double-digit road losses — and nearly a fourth at Michigan — he pointed to numerous hustle plays his team made.
But effort is just part of the equation Illinois (13-8, 3-5 Big Ten) is trying to put together as the season continues today with a 3:30 p.