CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Just about every Illinois basketball fan from the legendary Henson family down to campus freshman are sharing in the excitement of the Illini’s March Madness success.

The Illini continue their march towards history today, against defending national champions, UConn.

Mary Henson, wife of the late coach Lou Henson, said the love of the Illini runs deep.

“Lou would be so thrilled.  He would love this.” Henson said.

As the men’s fighting Illini experienced their first Sweet 16 win since 2005, Henson shared in the joy.

“It’s been so exciting and we’re screaming and yelling and doing our thing at the screen,” Henson said.

Mary Henson was the wife of the Illini’s all-time winningest coach, Lou Henson — and an avid community supporter.

“They’ve come a long way. Of course, I’ve been watching them all the time develop,” Henson said. “And they have done so, so well, developing this team and putting them together.” 

She came back early from her other residence in New Mexico to watch with friends as the Illini continue their march.

“This time of the year brings back great memories. And I’m so proud of this team.” says Henson

She also saw the women’s basketball team as they advanced to the semifinals of the new WBIT tournament.

“We’re so proud of those girls. Oh, my goodness,” Henson said. “I’ve been to some of the games this year and oh, they’re just doing so well.”

Henson said there’s always been something special about this community and supporting their own.

“The community was so wonderful to take us in and make us one of theirs, and that was so important to us and to our family,” she added. “And, it was so important to the team.”

She said she saw it when Lou was hired in 1975 and still sees it almost 50 years later.

“There’s hardly any other school that actually backs our players the way that our fans do here. I mean, they’re fabulous,” Henson said. “They’ve always been fabulous fans.”

Henson said she’s excited for Saturday’s game against UConn, which she will be watching alongside family and friends.

“We’re going to have a little get together to watch the game coming up on Saturday,” Henson said. “And so that’ll be fun to just well, it’s just fun to enjoy. It brings back such great memories for me.” says Henson

Her advice: Just play Illini basketball. Which for Coach Lou meant:. 

“Just focus on winning and work your tail off .” says Henson