Illinois upset win over Minnesota in the semis of the Big Ten tourney was tainted by an obvious officials blunder with under 20 seconds to go in the game. With Illinois clinging to a 4 point lead, an Illini player rebounded a missed shot and fell to the ground after being hit in the eye. Replay after replay showed that it was incidental contact caused by two guys going for the ball. After the player fell to the ground the official Steve Skiles blew his whistle. He signaled offcials timeout.
This is a huge mistake. He should have either called a foul on Minnesota or a travel on the Illinois player. After reviewing the clock not only did they not make a call, but took an additional 4 seconds off the clock. They determined that the clock didn’t start at the begining of the play. This is an incorectable call!
In essence they took away any chances for Minnesota to win the game and advance to the NCAA tournament. These officials should be punished with suspension from any further games this year and in the subsequent season. This is the only way to have them accountable for their actions. My money, however, is that nothing will happen to them and you will see all three officiating in the NCAA tournament. This is a travesty!!!
