This isn't where the Illinois players want to be, playing in the NIT. It was NCAA tournament-or-bust for these guys. Truth is, with their spring break starting today, some of them would rather be on a beach somewhere than preparing for Kent State's visit Monday. That's just the way it is.
Read more…Staff writer Paul Klee might be the fastest text messager in the Midwest. FWIW, each Wednesday we'll utilize his GR8 skill to interview a text-savvy personality. THX to former Illini sharpshooter Eddie Johnson, the school's sixth-leading career scorer who answered our questions via texts while in the thick of the NBA playoff race as the Phoenix Suns color commentator:
EJ, let's get right to it. Who wins the NBA title?
Boston – they have been the best and most consistent team all year.
Derek Harper, Steve Bardo, you. What's with all the ex-Illini in broadcast booths?
Broadcasting is a great job and it's a steppingstone to anything involving basketball if you are interested in doing so. The Illini are the best in the business.
What made you the best shooter in Illinois history?
I worked on my shooting relentlessly. And that's why I was and still am pure.
Can you please help Illinois' free throw shooting?
Yes, I could fix their woes.
How would you fix Shaq's free throw shooting?
To be honest, Shaq has improved a lot this year. He gets better arc and that's what I would have taught him.
Happy early birthday. (He turns 49 on May 1.) Where is Eddie Johnson in five years?
Probably living on a golf course and playing every day. But a lot of people including my wife expect me to be coaching at the college or pro level.
More of a thrill: Beating Magic's Spartans with a game-winning jumper, scoring 19,000 points in the NBA or Textin' with Klee?
Game-winning jumper in Game 7 of a playoff series. Or, as I did at Illinois, hit the game-winner against Michigan State.
Thanks, EJ.
Ur welcome.