Illinois Fighting Illini guard Ayo Dosunmu (11) celebrates after scoring a basket and getting fouled against Ohio State Buckeyes during the second half of their game at Value City Arena in Columbus, Ohio on March 6, 2021. Osu Mens Bbk 0306 Kwr 33
Top 25 rankings: Illinois rises after dominating Big 10 foes originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago
Three is the big number for Illinois basketball this week, but one is the number that may matter most come Selection Sunday.
Coach Brad Underwood and company come in at No. 3 in this week’s AP Top 25 college basketball rankings, up one spot. They have a legitimate National Player of the Year candidate in Ayo Dosunmu and a bona fide shot at a No. 1 seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament. The Fighting Illini start action in the Big Ten Tournament Friday.
Michigan and Ohio State each fell two spots, to No. 4 and No. 9, respectively. Loyola, fresh off an MVC Tournament title, is up to No. 18.
READ: AP Top 25 basketball poll: Illinois at No. 3, NCAA Tournament 1-seed in sight
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