Will Riley Shatters Freshman Scoring Record for Illinois

On November 4, 2024, in Champaign, Illinois, Will Riley made an impressive entrance into college basketball by scoring 31 points in his debut with the Fighting Illini, setting a new record for freshman scoring in their first game. His performance was highlighted by a dominant second half, in which he tallied 26 points, including 12 consecutive points late in the game. Illinois secured a commanding victory over Eastern Illinois with a final score of 112-67, showcasing their offensive prowess. Riley's shooting was highly efficient; he made 10 of 13 shots overall and displayed his range by hitting five 3-pointers out of six attempts. Additionally, he excelled at the free-throw line, converting 6 of 7 attempts. This strong performance helped contribute to Illinois’s overall success, as they went 16 of 42 from three-point range. Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn, another standout in the game, added 21 points, further supporting the team’s high-scoring output. The victory also marked Illinois's continued success in season openers, extending their winning streak to nine straight. This streak began in 2016. Hosting Eastern Illinois for their opener for three consecutive seasons, Illinois approached this matchup with confidence, as they are also receiving attention just outside the Top 25 in the preseason AP poll. Overall, Will Riley's record-setting debut is not only a personal achievement for him but also a positive sign for Illinois as they aim to solidify their standing in college basketball this season.