Illini close out emotional ride in one unforgettable season

True, the Illini coach had a talented team fall into his lap, but he also deserves credit for keeping everyone together and getting Self's players to buy into a new system.

At the Final Four, Weber hardly looked out of place alongside Williams, Louisville's Rick Pitino and Michigan State's Tom Izzo. And if Weber follows the same career path, he'll be back on the biggest stage someday.

"We've got some good, young talent on our team," said junior guard Dee Brown, who might skip his final season to enter the NBA Draft. "Coach Weber will do a great job of getting us focused the next couple of weeks."

But first, there's time to reflect on the most amazing season in Illinois history.

Weber hugged all the seniors, including guard Luther Head, who had offered to quit the team after a 2003 arrest. Weber persuaded him to stick it out, earning the player's gratitude, respect and undying loyalty.

Head had a crucial turnover in the final minute, driving into the lane and dishing a pass that was intercepted by Raymond Felton. The North Carolina guard was fouled and made one free throw to give the Tar Heels a 73-70 lead.

Head had a chance to atone, but he missed a 3 that could have tied it. Felton hit two more free throws and it was over.

But that's not what Weber will remember. Head led Illinois with 21 points, spearheading the comeback with five 3-pointers.

"Luther got us back in the game," Weber said. "I hugged him and cried. He cried. I mean, he's come so far. I couldn't be more proud of a kid."

That goes for the whole team.

"What else can you say?" Weber said. "It goes down in history. Not only Illinois history, NCAA history. We tied the most wins ever, number one for all-time. We got to the championship game.

"If you're not happy with this, I feel sorry for you, because life ain't getting any better."

Of course, one more win would have made it even better.