The Illinois Fighting Illini are in a tough position as they vie for a potential NCAA Tournament spot, though their chances are diminishing unless they make an unexpected run in the Big Ten Tournament. With two regular-season games left before the conference tournament, head coach Brad Underwood is optimistic that they will soon receive reinforcements. According to Matt Schick from ESPN, Underwood stated that freshman forward Morez Johnson Jr. is expected to return from his injury shortly.
Johnson has been out of action since February 15 due to a wrist injury he sustained during a game against Michigan State. In that match, he made a notable block in transition, which resulted in a fall and subsequently led to his broken wrist.
Underwood is hopeful that Johnson will be back in time for the Big Ten Tournament. He expressed confidence in the Fighting Illini’s chances of making the NCAA Tournament, indicating that if Johnson isn’t available for the conference tournament, he will certainly be ready by that time.
This season, Johnson has played in 26 games, including eight starts, averaging just over 17 minutes on the court. He has been contributing 7.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.1 blocked shots per game, with shooting percentages of 66.7 percent from the field and 61.9 percent from the charity stripe.
His presence has provided Illinois with a formidable low post option, showcasing impressive strength and effectiveness near the basket. Additionally, he is a reliable defensive player capable of bolstering their paint protection.
Regarding their chances for the NCAA Tournament, the Fighting Illini have made the tournament in each of the past four seasons with Underwood at the helm. However, with only two games left in the regular season, Illinois holds a record of 18-11 overall and 10-8 within the conference.
Last season, Underwood led the Illini to the Elite Eight before they were defeated by UConn. As it stands, Illinois’ prospects for the tournament appear tenuous, but ultimately, the selection committee will have the final say.
Since taking over as the Fighting Illini’s head coach in the 2017-18 season after leaving Oklahoma State, Underwood has compiled an impressive record of 270-126.
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