Notebook: Wagler delivers on the glass; Boswell rues missed free throws; Illini feeling Elite once again
247Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Illinois assistant coach challenged freshman Keaton Wagler to secure 10 rebounds before the Sweet Sixteen game against Houston, emphasizing the importance of guard rebounds for victory.
- Wagler responded with a career-high 12 rebounds and 13 points, helping No. 2 seed Illinois defeat No. 2 seed Houston 65-55 and advance to the Elite Eight against Iowa.
- Despite his slender frame, Wagler has been consistently strong on the boards, averaging 5.1 rebounds per game and recording at least five rebounds in all three NCAA Tournament games this season.
- Wagler credited his focus on doing whatever the team needs to win, including rebounding aggressively to prevent second-chance points for the opponent.
