Illinois Gears Up for Crucial Matchup Against Kentucky

MILWAUKEE — Illinois coach Brad Underwood is counting on guard Kylan Boswell to lead his team into a high-stakes NCAA Tournament matchup against Kentucky on Sunday afternoon. The Illini, seeded sixth, face the third-seeded Wildcats at Fiserv Forum with a chance to advance to the Sweet 16.

Underwood, who previously recruited Boswell before he attended Arizona, emphasized the importance of the guard’s defensive skills and leadership as pivotal in this tournament. ‘I loved the fact that he always guarded the other team’s best player,’ Underwood said. ‘That’s a characteristic of a selfless player who takes pride in winning.’

After two years in Tucson, Boswell transferred to Illinois last spring and has been earmarked for a leadership role in a revamped roster following last year’s Elite Eight run. ‘He told me he was going to push me hard and have the most expectations for our team,’ Boswell recounted. ‘I knew what was expected, but it was no problem for me.’

The Illini, who averaged 83.9 points per game, will encounter a formidable Kentucky offense that ranks sixth nationally with 85 points per game. The Wildcats present a balanced attack featuring five players scoring in double figures, notably guards Otega Oweh and Koby Brea, who pose significant threats from both the perimeter and in transition.

‘Not letting their guards get off is the main thing,’ Boswell stressed. ‘We’ve done a great job of that all year. Otega, Koby, and Lamont are kind of the head of the snake for that team.’

In their first-round victory over Xavier, where Illinois won 86-73, Boswell contributed defensively—holding Xavier’s Ryan Conwell to 12 points on a poor shooting night. His ability to inspire confidence in younger teammates has been invaluable as the squad features several first-time NCAA Tournament participants.

Freshman forward Riley continues to adapt to the tournament atmosphere, with Boswell acting as a calming presence during tense moments. ‘He’s been great with helping us prepare for big moments,’ teammate Ben Humrichous noted.

Underwood praised Boswell’s growth in leadership, emphasizing a marked maturity following his experience at Arizona. ‘He’s 19, yet he has a wealth of knowledge and experience,’ he stated. ‘He’s not afraid to lead or communicate, even when that’s difficult.’

As the Illini prepare to face Kentucky, they understand the importance of delivering another strong performance in a win-or-go-home scenario. ‘He’s tough, he’s gritty, he’s strong,’ Underwood added about Boswell. ‘He’s a veteran. That winning mindset rubs off on everyone.’