Share and Follow
HOUSTON, Texas – In a triumphant display, the Illinois men’s basketball team has secured a spot in the Elite Eight by overcoming Houston with a 65-55 victory in the Sweet 16.
The win was significantly bolstered by the exceptional performances of Illinois’ two freshman starters, David Mirkovic and Keaton Wagler. Both players achieved the remarkable feat of recording double-doubles, with Mirkovic contributing 14 points and 10 rebounds, and Wagler adding 13 points alongside 12 rebounds.
This impressive accomplishment marks the first time since freshmen became fully eligible in the 1972-73 season that a pair of freshman teammates have both logged double-doubles in the same NCAA tournament game, according to Illini Athletics and ESPN.
Head coach Brad Underwood praised his young stars, particularly highlighting Keaton’s dedication. “He’s a great listener,” Underwood remarked, emphasizing the team’s focus on rebounding from the guard positions throughout the week. “Keaton just takes everything to heart… To do this, in this moment – You guys got to understand what a joy it is to coach him.”
“He’s a great listener,” Illinois head coach Brad Underwood said, adding Illinois talked all week about guard rebounding. “Keaton just takes everything to heart… To do this, in this moment – You guys got to understand what a joy it is to coach him”
Additionally, Mirkovic’s effort on the glass helped him surpass Kofi Cockburn for the Illinois freshman record for rebounds in a season.
“I’m really proud of us,” Mirkovic said after Illinois put together a defensive clinic against the Cougars. “We were mentally locked in for 40 minutes.”
Illinois will play Iowa in the Elite 8 on Saturday, set for a 5:09 CT tip-off on TBS/truTV.