Wagler's Rebounding Heroics Propel Illinois

0:00On March 27th, Illinois freshman Keaton Wagler stepped up big time in the Sweet 16 game against Houston. The 6-foot 6-point guard grabbed 12 rebounds, helping his team secure the win. Normally, a leading scorer and assist leader at 17.8 points per game, he focused on the boards this time around. His coach Brad Underwood stressed that guards needed to crash the glass hard, aiming for 10 or more rebounds each. Wagler, who averaged 4.9 boards all season, took that challenge personally. At 185 pounds, dominating Houston's physical front court was no small feat for a perimeter player. Teammates and opponents all point into rebounding as the difference. Houston guards a manual sharp, and Milo Sousin admitted after the game that Wagler's 12 boards killed their defense, letting Illinois get second. And, third chances. Wagler himself said offensive rebounds are key to scoring runs. He only scored 13 points, below his average, but shown elsewhere.

1:03His vision led to crisp passes that beat Houston's traps, sparking Illinois's offense and limiting turnovers. Defensively, he battled hard too, adapting to whatever the team needed. With that toughness on display, Illinois advances, and Wagler looks ready for whatever comes next in the tournament.