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Basketball, Big Ten Conference, Illinois Fighting Illini

Illinois Fighting Illini's 2023 Season: A Promising Start Under New Head Coach Brad Underwood

Big Ten Conference Update: Illinois Fighting Illini

A Resurgent Start in the 2023 Season

The Illinois Fighting Illini have started their 2023 campaign with a promising 5-2 record, including two conference victories in the Big Ten. Under the leadership of new head coach Brad Underwood, the team has shown signs of improvement on both ends of the floor.

Underwood's Impact on the Team

Underwood, who previously coached at Stephen F. Austin and Oklahoma State, has brought a renewed sense of energy and discipline to the Illini program. He has implemented a more up-tempo offensive style, while also emphasizing defensive intensity.

Underwood's impact has been evident in the team's early-season performances. The Illini are averaging 80.7 points per game, while holding opponents to just 67.6 points per game. They are also forcing an impressive 10 turnovers per game.

Key Players to Watch

Several players have emerged as key contributors for the Illini this season. Junior guard Trent Frazier is leading the team in scoring, averaging 17.7 points per game. He is also a threat from beyond the arc, shooting 42.9% from three-point range.

Redshirt junior forward Giorgi Bezhanishvili has been a force in the paint, averaging 12.4 points and 6.9 rebounds per game. He is a skilled post player who can score with his back to the basket or step out and hit mid-range jumpers.

Big Ten Conference Outlook

The Big Ten Conference is one of the toughest in college basketball, and the Illini will have their work cut out for them in conference play. However, the team has shown that they have the potential to compete with the best teams in the conference.

If the Illini can continue to play with the same intensity and execution that they have shown in their first seven games, they could be a surprise team in the Big Ten this season.

Conclusion

The Illinois Fighting Illini are off to a promising start in the 2023 season. Under the leadership of new head coach Brad Underwood, the team has shown signs of improvement on both ends of the floor. With several key players returning, the Illini have the potential to compete for a spot in the NCAA Tournament this season.