First The Takedown

The Illini were no match for OHIO (9-1), a 80-68 thrashing. Solid defensive effort all night creating 21 turnovers, but it was the offense that finally clicked in the 3rd quarter with a 27-10 run. Then, with a 64-36 blowout advantage, Coach Boldon started expanding the playing roster, allowing Illinois to close the gap at the end. Kiki Lampkins as usual led the way in scoring while Jaz Witherspoon goes double up, 14 &11. Boesinger, Adler and Burke also with solid games.

Now The reminder: The Finish to the Men’s and Women’s 85-86 Season

Up first was the the women’s game- Back then the NCAA would grant a home game to one of the teams in the tourney in the first round and that year OHIO (26-2) got a home game to play Illinois, despite Illinois being an 8 seed and Ohio a 9. This was the Caroline Mast era, and our coach, Amy Pritchard, was 23 years old.

The next night, Danny Nee’s men team also got a tourney home game. This one was in the NIT and we got to take on Ohio State, the last time they played here. State had no choice.

It was a wild weekend as both games were well played and were touch and go, but OHIO came up short both games, the men losing 65-62. The crowds were rocking both nights, with a packed house in the men’s game.
The last time both teams visited the Convo until yesterday.

Boldon Ball!