John Groce’s Illini have stumbled out of the Big Ten blocks all three of his seasons, starting no better than 2-2. This season’s four-game start offers little relief:
Wednesday, vs. Michigan Sunday, at Ohio State Jan. 7, at Michigan State
Skinny: Wolverines have won nine of the last 10 meetings against Illini since 2011, Caris LeVert (above) is healthy and UM just made 17 three-pointers in its latest win.
Skinny: One-time UI recruiting target, Keita Bates-Diop (above) is second in scoring (13.0 points) and rebounding (6.3) for Thad Matta’s Buckeyes, who have won four straight.
Skinny: Even if Denzel Valentine (above) isn’t recovered yet from his knee injury, Spartans are No.