Good Morning, Illini Nation: More national perspective

Illinois could be positioned for another deep NCAA Tournament run, according to an ESPN outlook referenced in a “Good Morning, Illini Nation” column. ESPN’s Myron Medcalf ranked the Illini third in the Big Ten behind Michigan State and Michigan, while setting the floor at a second-round exit and the ceiling at another Final Four appearance. The writer says the outlook is consistent with recent performance, noting Illinois’ shot to win early tournament games and pointing to prior success under Brad Underwood. Medcalf cited that Underwood’s teams have finished top 15 in adjusted offensive efficiency on KenPom for three straight seasons and return three of last season’s top five scorers. The main concerns are replacing Keaton Wagler and an early surgery for David Mirkovic’s foot, with his availability uncertain.