Illinois State's Kinziger Drains Game-Winner in NIT Upset

0:00On March 22nd, Illinois State pulled off a big upset in the NIT, beating Wake Forest 78-75 on Sunday. Johnny Kinziger drained the game-winning three-pointer from the left wing with just 1.7 seconds left, working off a screen to seal the victory for the Redbirds. Ty Pants carried the team with 23 points, going 8-11 from the field, 304 from beyond the arc, and perfect 4-4 for 4, at the free throw line. Kinziger added 19 points in 5 assists, while Chase Walker chipped in 15 points, including 8 in the first half. The game stayed tight, tied at 32 at half time, before Illinois State found their rhythm in the second half. Pants alone scored 17 points after the break, helping the Redbirds overcome Wake Forest's strong front court play. Trayvon Spillers led the demon deacons with 24 points in 8 rebounds, and Duke Harris nearly mashed him with 20 points. 8 boards and 4 assists, Omaha Bill U added 11 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 blocks in the loss.

1:05With a 22 and 12 record, Illinois State now heads to Dayton for the NIT quarterfinals, keeping their postseason hopes alive against. Another solid opponent.