In a stunning display of skill, Illinois forward Marcus Domask etched his name into NCAA tournament history as just the ninth player to achieve a triple-double, propelling the No. 3 Illini to an 85-69 victory over No. 14 Morehead State in the opening round.
Recording 12 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists, Domask’s accomplishment mirrors that of Ja Morant’s in 2019, marking a significant milestone in collegiate basketball. The defining moment came with 2:57 remaining, as Domask drained a pivotal 3-pointer to solidify his triple-double status.
Not since Morant’s memorable performance has the NCAA tournament witnessed such an achievement, underscoring Domask’s exceptional talent on the court. This feat joins the ranks of basketball legends, with the likes of Gary Grant and Shaquille O’Neal setting the precedent in previous decades.
Illinois’ victory, though hard-fought, showcased their dominance, particularly in the second half, where they outclassed Morehead State with precision shooting and relentless offense. Terrence Shannon Jr. and Riley Minix emerged as key scorers in a game that saw the Illini secure a comfortable lead after a challenging first half.
Looking ahead, Illinois prepares to face Duquesne in the next round, aiming to continue their quest for NCAA tournament glory. With Domask’s historic performance fueling their momentum, the Illini stand poised for further success on the national stage.