Brad Underwood comments on breakout game from Matthew Mayer, toughness of Jayden Epps in upset win over Texas
Brad Underwood finally got to see Matthew Mayer have a breakout performance. The Baylor transfer impressed Underwood along with Jayden Epps.
Mayer finished the game against Texas with 21 points, 2 rebounds, and 1 assist. Underwood noted how nice it was to have a Mayer sighting. The Fighting Illini beat the Longhorns 85-78 in overtime Tuesday.
“We had a Matthew Mayer sighting which was really nice to see and much needed,” said Underwood.
#Illini Underwood: We had a Matthew Mayer sighting which was really nice to see & much needed
— Derek Piper (@DPiper247) December 7, 2022
Underwood officially welcomed Mayer to the orange and blue after the performance. Underwood knows that Mayer has been working hard to have a game like this.
“I’m giddy just to see (Mayer),” said Underwood. “I welcomed him to the orange & blue after that game. Great for him to take a breath. He’s a winner & he’s been pressin’.”
#Illini Underwood: I’m giddy just to see (Mayer)… I welcomed him to the orange & blue after that game. Great for him to take a breath. He’s a winner & he’s been pressin’.
— Derek Piper (@DPiper247) December 7, 2022
Epps managed to score some baskets despite veteran Marcus Carr guarding him. This impressed Underwood as Epps is just a freshman. Epps had 11 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists against the Longhorns.
“I told him I loved the shot he missed at Maryland,” said Underwood. “He’s a tough nut. He’s a tough kid. Doesn’t matter that he’s got a 5th year senior in Marcus Carr guarding him.”
#Illini Underwood on Epps: I told him I loved the shot he missed at Maryland.. He’s a tough nut. He’s a tough kid. Doesn’t matter that he’s got a 5th year senior in Marcus Carr guarding him.
— Derek Piper (@DPiper247) December 7, 2022
Illinois plays a B1G opponent on Saturday with Penn State coming to town. Tipoff will be at noon ET on BTN.