IU v Illinois Quick Recap and Postgame Show

Indiana defeated Illinois tonight in a win that was remarkable for just how unremarkable it was. I say this not to disrespect Illinois, but rather as a sign of respect: last year, beating a solid Illinois in a close game at home induced a court storm and a crazed Tom Crean hoo-hoo-hoosiering in the Assembly Hall lobby; this year, IU beating a solid, potential-tournament Illinois by 12 at home induced a lot of expectant nodding and “nice game Hoosiers” from Hoosier fans. If anything it is a sign from growth from this year to last, it is that. Don’t get me wrong, there were plenty of remarkable performances tonight. Jordan Hulls played one of his best all-around games as a Hoosier. Victor Oladipo continued to be a difference maker with the basketball in his hands attacking. And Christian Watford had a solid, hard-earned 18 points, with some gritty D mixed in during the Hoosiers’ 2nd half surge. And Cody Zeller grew up before our eyes tonight. Meyers Leonard outplayed him in the first...