March 15, 2013
Photo credit: YouTube
The 2013 Big Ten Tournament held the first round of games in Chicago yesterday (3/14). The highlight of the day was U of I senior Brandon Paul’s buzzer beater to advance the Illini.
The Illinois men’s basketball team are still considered a “bubble” team for the NCAA Tournament. However, they may have improved their standing with the selection committee with yesterday’s win.
The Illini took an early lead over Minnesota in the game. However, the Golden Gophers managed to fight back to take the lead near the end of the 2nd half of play. D.J. Richardson drained a three point shot to tie the game at 49 all. Minnesota had the ball with a chance to win the game, but turned it over to the Illini instead.
That’s when Brandon Paul stepped up for the Fighting Illini. He shot a fade-away jumper over two Gopher defenders to beat the buzzer, beat Minnesota and advance the Illini in the Big Ten Tournament.
Illinois will face-off against Indiana in round two of the Big Ten Tournament today (3/15) starting at 11 am central time at the United Center.
Watch highlights from round one of the 2013 Big Ten Tournament, including Brandon Paul's buzzer beater below.
2013 Big Ten Tournament Round 1 Scores:
8 Illinois – 51 5 Michigan – 83
9 Minnesota – 49 12 Penn St. – 66
6 Iowa – 73 7 Purdue – 55
11 Northwestern – 59 10 – Nebraska – 57
By: Buck Stevens