But, this NIT matchup isn’t normal. Usually, it is just two underperforming teams going at it with coaches who are likely on the hot seat. That isn’t the case with the Crusaders because they still had a 24-8 record and they lost their best player part way through the season.
And actually, that isn’t the case with Illinois anymore either. With John Groce being relieved of his duties as the head coach of this team on Saturday, the interim head coach Jamall Walker really has nothing to lose now.
While the head coach search probably started a while ago with athletic director Josh Whitman building a list of candidates, Walker still has a shot to impress.