(Sports) Editor's Note

Cory Bradford

Posted by: Jim Rossow

Saturday, January 26, 2008 8:59 PM

Today's Illini sure could use a shooter like the fifth-leading scorer in school history, who still is sinking jumpers professionally in Hungary. The UI's all-time leading three-point shooter is averaging 22 points for Albacomp. When he's not on the court, he's watching ESPN on his Slingbox and trading e-mails with former teammates Jerrance Howard, Frank Williams and Damir Krupalija. Here's more from our Q&A:

JR: What's the best part of playing basketball in Hungary?

CB: I would say the atmosphere and culture here is pretty cool. I love going to Budapest. Goulash by far is my favorite (dish) here. It can be made in different ways, (and I) have not had a bad one yet.


JR: Ever play against any former Illinois teammates or Big Ten players?

CB: Have not played against anybody I played with but against a ton of Big Ten players: Thomas Kelly (Michigan State), Jitim Young (Northwestern), Brian Brown (Ohio State) and a handful of other guys.


JR: Are you the best shooter in the country?

CB: Of course. I feel like I'm the best shooter every time I step on the court.


JR: Are Hungarians rooting for the Patriots to finish undefeated?

CB: Not really. They can care less for American football.


JR: Where do you keep that basketball that was presented to you for breaking the consecutive games with a three-pointer streak?

CB: It's actually at my grandmother's house. Once me and my soon-to-be-wife get our first house, we will display it there.

JR: Illinois is not going to make the NCAA tournament without winning the Big Ten tournament. Any words of encouragement for the team?

CB: I have been in this same situation. Just stay together and remember who you are representing – ILLINOIS – is printed on your chest.

JR: Does Illinois need a new arena or is the Assembly Hall OK with you?

CB: The Assembly Hall will always be perfect.

JR: Do you like the idea of the college three-point line moving back next season? Will the move protect your record?

CB: I don't think it really matters. Players are shooting deep anyway, building toward that NBA line. I hope (my record doesn't get broken). Records are meant to be broken, but those moments last a lifetime.

JR: What do you want to be doing in five years?

CB: Hopefully finishing my basketball career or starting my college coaching career.

JR: What's it going to take for Coach Weber to get Illinois back on track?

CB: Faith and heart. I would also like to say thanks to all the fans that supported me throughout my career and that I will always bleed orange and blue. I L L- I N I.

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