Weber also delivered the ideal answer when asked if he expected that win to get Illinois (19-13) into the NCAA Tournament:
"I know we're in the Big Ten tournament."
Illinois can bolster its case for an at-large bid â€" or continue on toward an automatic spot in the tournament in Saturday's semifinal game against No. 1 seed Ohio State.
Illinois isn't alone on the NCAA Tournament bubble:
Washington
Record: 23-9
vs. RPI top 50: 2-2
The case for the Huskies: UW has kind of a mid-major profile. They've beaten a couple quality teams (Texas A&M, California) but lost twice to teams that are .500 or worse (UCLA, Oregon).
Verdict: Without much to disqualify them, there's going to be room for the Huskies on the bracket â€" and they're good enough to force their way in by claiming the Pac-10 title.
Rhode Island
Record: 23-8
vs. RPI top 50: 1-4
The case for the Rams: They're among the few bubble teams with a winning mark (7-6) against the top 100. It's such a weak year this has become a badge of honor.
Verdict: The Rams play Temple in the Atlantic 10 semifinals. They might not need a win, but they can't afford to be blown out.
Mississippi State
Record: 22-10
vs. RPI top 50: 1-4
The case for the Bulldogs: A sweep over in-state rival Ole Miss helped them to an 8-6 record against top 100 opponents.
Verdict: When you play in the SEC and your highest-ranked opponent is Old Dominion, it's hard to make the case you're a strong contender.
San Diego State
Record: 24-8
vs. RPI top 50: 3-5
The case for the Aztecs: Friday's victory over New Mexico is their second over UNM and first significant accomplishment away from home.
Verdict: They're 4-6 against the top 100 and have two losses to teams rated in triple digits, but a spot in Saturday's Mountain West final was probably what they needed.
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