Illinois currently leads the NCAA in 3-point field goals per game (10.0). The Illini made at least 10 three-pointers in each of its first six games of the season, becoming the first UI team ever to make double-digit three-point field goals in six consecutive games. Illinois has now made 10 or more threes in eight of 12 games on the year.
Mizzou has shown it can struggle with defending the three point shot. Against Southeast Missouri State, the Redhawks were 8 of 15 from three-point range in a first half where the Tigers refused to defend the open shot. In the second half, when Mizzou decided to play defense, SEMO shot 1 of 11 from long range.
AUDIOÂ Joining us on this podcast, is Brian Barnhart, the voice of the Illini. (9:00)
Illinois has made 40 more 3-point baskets than its opposition so far this season (120-to-80), a total of 120 more points and meaning the Illini are outscoring the competition by a margin of 10 points per game from the land of three.
While it’s still early, the Illini look to be well on their way to challenging the school record for 3-point field goals per game, which is currently held by the 2004-05 team (8.8).
In addition to talking three-pointers, we talk about the key to Illinois turning things around under first year coach John Groce and get the Illini perspective of what this game means.
