While many Illini fans were hoping to breeze through this one, the Illini got more than they wanted for much of the game. The Cornhuskers brought gritty defense that made life difficult for the Illini, and their offensive attack maintained periodic spurts of energy that prevented Illinois from building a lead. That strong perimeter defense, paired with sustained interior defensive effort from Nebraska big man Derrick Walker, kept the contest competitive and exciting throughout.
The Illini got punched in the mouth, but their response down the stretch revealed the grit, character and depth of this group, powered by the steady leadership of super senior guard Trent Frazier.