Survive and advance. That’s the name of the game.
The Illini only led for 25 seconds on Friday night, but they were ahead when it mattered most — at the final buzzer, 54-53.
Illinois’ All-American Kofi Cockburn gave Illinois its first lead with just 45 seconds left on a missed Coleman Hawkins free throw. The Mocs responded to take a one point advantage on a pair of Malachi Smith free throws.
Alfonso Plummer drew a pair of his own with 12 seconds remaining and converted them both. Then, Hawkins blocked Chattanooga’s attempt on the ensuing possession and the Mocs’ rebound attempt didn’t fall, sending Illinois to the Round of 32 for the second time in as many years.