CHAMPAIGN — Aaron Jordan came away with a long inbounds pass intended for Western Carolina’s Mike Brown late in Saturday’s game.
He corralled the ball just past halfcourt at State Farm Center, took two dribbles and went up for the transition layup when he was fouled.
Before Jordan could head to the free throw line — where he made both shots to give the Illini a 10-point lead with 2:54 to play — he was met at the baseline by Illinois coach John Groce — who made his own sprint down the sideline during the play to congratulate his freshman guard.