Illinois coach John Groce (GROHS) says his team's loss to Michigan in last season's Big Ten tournament taught players a lesson.

The loss cost the Illini a potential NCAA Tournament bid. And Groce said Thursday during media day that showed his players their margin for error is small.

Most of that team is back. It finished 20-15 and went to the National Invitation Tournament.

One player who isn't back this season is starting point guard Tracy Abrams. He's out with a knee injury.

Groce is looking to transfer Ahmad Starks to take over a big piece of Abrams' role.

Illinois struggled to score last season.

Starks should help. He set the Oregon State record for career 3-point shots made, with 185.

Illinois opens with a Nov. 7 exhibition against Quincy.