Illinois got its payback on Sunday-and did it in style.
The Illini turned in one of their most complete performances of the season, knocking off Nebraska 78-69 in a game that felt personal. The Cornhuskers had edged out Illinois back in December, but this time, the Orange and Blue weren’t just looking to win-they were looking to make a statement. And thanks to a second-half surge led by freshman phenom Keaton Wagler, they did exactly that.
Wagler was electric. He poured in 28 points on 7-of-15 shooting, including 4-of-9 from beyond the arc.
But the stat line only tells part of the story. With Illinois trailing by six at the half, Wagler flipped the switch, dropping 23 of his 28 points in the second half and powering a comeback that showcased his poise, shot-making, and leadership.
Nebraska head coach Fred Hoiberg didn’t hold back when talking about Wagler after the game.
“(Keaton) Wagler is playing as a first-team All-American right now,” Hoiberg said.
And it’s hard to argue.
Since Illinois’ loss to UConn earlier this season, Wagler has taken the reins of this team. He’s not just scoring-he’s dictating the pace, creating for others, and stepping up in the biggest moments.
The Illini have gone 13-1 since that UConn game, with their only loss coming on a buzzer-beater at Nebraska. That stretch has pushed Illinois up the AP Top 25 and solidified them as a team to watch come March.
Hoiberg, a former 10-year NBA veteran, knows what elite talent looks like-and he sees it in Wagler.
“He’s been doing it all year,” Hoiberg added. “He finds a way to get to the rim. He gets to the line.”
That’s not just coach-speak. Wagler’s game is polished beyond his years.
He’s averaging 18.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game while shooting a scorching 43.8% from deep. For a freshman, those are eye-popping numbers.
For any player, really.
But what sets Wagler apart isn’t just the production-it’s the way he carries himself. He’s become the guy Illinois leans on when things get tight. The ball finds him in crunch time, and more often than not, he delivers.
When a coach with NBA experience like Hoiberg offers that kind of praise, it carries weight. He’s seen what it takes to make it at the next level, and he sees those traits in Wagler.
Illinois fans have every reason to be excited. Their team is rolling, and at the heart of it is a freshman who’s not just playing like a star-he’s playing like a leader. And if Sunday was any indication, he’s only getting better.