The Latest Breaking News from Illini

The Illini led for just 25 seconds of their first-round win over the Mocs.

Alfonso Plummer made two free throws with 12 seconds left for the winning points. Coleman Hawkins blocked a shot at the other end before 13th-seeded Chattanooga’s best player, Malachi Smith, misfired on the game’s final attempt.

Trent Frazier and Coleman Hawkins wore sunglasses to their news conference Sunday after getting the word Illinois had earned a No. 4 seed in the South Region of the NCAA Tournament, where they’ll take on 13th-seeded Chattanooga in a first-round game at 5:50 p.m. Friday in Pittsburgh (TNT).

INDIANAPOLIS — Illinois guard Andre Curbelo executed a beautiful behind-the-back dribble during the first half of a Big Ten Tournament quarterfinal against Indiana — then blew the layup.

INDIANAPOLIS — And just like that, Illinois is done.

Coach Brad Underwood claims extra rest heading into the NCAA Tournament will be just what the doctor ordered.

The Illini and Badgers were conference co-champs in the regular season, and a couple of awards don’t do anything to tip the scales. That’s what the Big Ten tournament is for.

As Illinois prepared for their Big 10 tournament opener, coach Brad Underwood on Wednesday addressed allegations of inappropriate taunts by Illini fans aimed at Iowa player Kris Murray.

Selection Sunday is six days away. Time to start digging under your mattresses for pool money.