Keaton Wagler's All-American Season

0:00On March 19th, Illinois freshman guard Keaton Wagler has earned consensus second-team All-American honors for major basketball groups, including the National Association of Basketball Coaches and the U.S. Basketball Writers Association. This caps a breakout season for the Big Ten freshman of the year, putting his number 23 jersey on track for the rafters at State Farm Center. Someday, earlier rankings had him as the 261st best prospect in his class, but Wagler now leads Illinois with 17.9 points. 4.4 assists and 4.8 rebounds per game. He lobs a team high 33.7 minutes, hits 40% from three point range, and 81% at the free throw line. Players and coaches credit the team's trust and chemistry for his rise, with Underwood noting it's the fifth such honor in his nine years. After an early Big Ten tournament exit to Wisconsin, a player's only meeting and rest helped to refocus the group, leaving everyone healthy and aligned. For their first round, NCAA matchup against Penn.

1:03Meanwhile, Illinois coach Brad Underwood shares a friendly rivalry with Penn's Fran McCaffrey, built on years of Big Ten battles and mutual respect. The Alini hold the number two offense nationally, but has struggled defensively in recent close losses. With bodies rested and mind sharp, Illinois heads into the tournament, ready to channel that energy into a deep run.