Mike Daum Leads House of Paign to Blowout Win in Team’s TBT Debut
House of ‘Paign may have had long odds to win the $1 million prize entering the 2020 TBT, but after their showing in the first round they may be a lot of people’s favorite darkhorse. Seeded No. 16 out of 24 teams, the group made up of mostly Illinois alumni routed War Tampa by a 76-53 score. It was House of ‘Paign’s first-ever TBT game.
Mike Daum, one of the non-Illinois alumni, led the squad with 21 points and 13 rebounds and was named player of the game.
“They really bought in and that’s what the product looks like when they do that,” House of ‘Paign head coach Mike LaTulip told ESPN after the game. “They love being around each other.”
House of ‘Paign will now face top-seeded Carmen’s Crew (Ohio State alumni) in the second round. For Big Ten fans, it’s going to be a must-watch matchup. Of course, Illinois and Ohio State have been longtime conference rivals dating back to 1912. Carmen’s Crew is the defending champion and coached by OSU legend/former NBA star Jared Sullinger.
Andres Feliz poured in 20 for House of ‘Paign and Malcolm Hill added 15 points of his own. Feliz played on the most recent Illinois squad, averaging double figures in scoring as a senior. Hill was named second-team All-Big Ten twice during his time with the Fighting Illini.
Mike Daum played four years at South Dakota State, earning Summit League Player of the Year three years in a row (2017-19). Most recently, he played professionally in Spain for Obradoiro.
In other first-round action, Team Brotherly Love trounced the Stillwater Stars by an 87-71 final score and Big X beat D2 by a 79-74 final score. For an updated bracket and schedule, click here.