Watching a special show on B10 network about the 1989 IL team. As a kid, my 2nd fav team was the Fighting Illini. Interesting comments talking about the tourney that season. For those that don't remember, we lost to them in S16 up at the Metrodome. They're interviewing Nick Anderson, Gill, Liberty, Henson, etc... Several commented how hyped they were to play us, and Anderson highlighted how much respect he had for Kenny Payne and Pervis. Henson said he thought we were the best team in the country that year. Bardo said same thing. How they game planned to stop Pervis and Chief.
Something I hadn't thought about though, Gill highlighted that we had 4 first round draft picks in our starting lineup, which was unheard of back then. It was one of the better teams that probably doesn't get talked about enough. Unfortunate draw having to face IL that year. Prob 2 of top 3/4 best teams to not win title, right up there w/ UNLV in 91.
Something I hadn't thought about though, Gill highlighted that we had 4 first round draft picks in our starting lineup, which was unheard of back then. It was one of the better teams that probably doesn't get talked about enough. Unfortunate draw having to face IL that year. Prob 2 of top 3/4 best teams to not win title, right up there w/ UNLV in 91.
