Illinois went into Iowa City and did something that hasn’t always come easily in the Brad Underwood era: they passed a brutal road test without flinching. The Illini led for nearly the entire game and walked out with a 75–69 win over a well-coached Iowa team in one of the toughest environments in the Big Ten. The final score was close — but the process, the response to adversity, and the composure told a much bigger story. In this LIVE postgame, I break down: • Why this game proved Illinois is different than past teams • The importance of jumping Iowa early and quieting the crowd • How Illinois responded when Iowa punched back • Kylan Boswell’s MVP-level performance and elite defense • Keaton Wagler’s clutch gene and absurd efficiency • Why holding Bennett Stirtz in check decided the game • Coaching adjustments, rebounding, and execution under pressure This wasn’t perfect — but it was exactly what serious teams do in January.

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