Growing up in Indiana I was no stranger to the Big Ten Conference. My loyalty was split between in-state rivals Purdue and Indiana. My high school team would sit in on Bob Knight's open practice once a year. We sat silent in the stands - hoping not to draw his attention or fire. In 1988 I started to fall in love with the University of Illinois and by 1989 they had assembled on of the most dynamic and entertaining squads in the country dubbed - The Flying Illini. I've watched the bulk of every season since and what is happening now at the U of I is truly exciting. First year coach John Groce has his team in the top 10 (along with a 10-0 record) and shows no signs of stopping. Check out the highlights from their win against Gonzaga.