The Fighting Illini spent much of the season ranked in the Top 25, climbing as high as No.

But, Illinois went on to win 10 of the last 12 league games before finishing second in the Big Ten tournament.

During the February 19th game vs. Northwestern, the Illini would set an NCAA record fewest points allowed in the first half of a game by giving up only 6 points.

[2] Cory Bradford earned second-team All-Big Ten honors after leading Illinois in scoring and the Big Ten in three-point field goals.

Forward Brian Cook was named Co-Freshman of the Year in the conference and earned All-Tournament honors with strong play in the Big Ten tournament.