Darrell Hoemann - AP

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As you no doubt just watched, the Illini survived the twin terrors of a Boise State team that can score quickly and a basketball game called by the most recognizable referee in College Basketball.

Some notes I would be remissed not to include in this first impressions post

• Mike Davis was pretty effin' good tonight 12 rebounds (6 offensive) and 16 points record his fourth double-double of the season. Those points were also fairly crucial as he made several under some extreme contention and when the game was getting a little too close there at the end.
• Demetri McCamey, although he had only 2 assists and 6 turnovers is still clearly the best suited player to run the offense right now. About 90% of the "oh god" moments came tonight when he was sitting on the bench. Besides that, he contributed 23 points to lead all scorers, you know thats all.
• Brandon Paul has gotten most of the praise and press of the two starting freshmen so far this season, but I want to point out D.J. Richardson tonight. He has saved alot of possessions from the crapper with his 3 point shot, and tonight's 14 points were evidence of that.
• Mike Tisdale's free throws, we must always be thankful when a big man makes the free throws.
• Lord help Bill Cole, who really worked his ass off tonight spelling Mike Tisdale early, and fouling out for his efforts. He played much better than his stat sheet will tell you.