A Giving Spirit

Happy New Year! Christmas has passed, but the spirit of giving has remained strong within the Illini men's basketball team. Big Ten Conference play has begun, and there has been one consistent theme for these boys. They love to give it away...the ball, a lead, their composure, etc.And while this spirit is completely appropriate in many facets of life, it isn't necessary on the court. Illini turnovers have been painful in recent games. The passing game that can take your breath away (remember that Tracy Abrams dunk in the Minnesota game?) has also led to many passes to opponents.In the Minnesota game, the Illini gave away a strong lead and plenty of momentum as Minnesota came back. The double-overtime win was exciting, but the nerve-wracking, nail-biting opening for all Big Ten play was not necessary. Against Purdue, the Illini fought hard and kept the game close throughout the first half. But they gave away a few turnovers, transition points and all their mental focus in the...