PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. – Asked to describe his U.S. Open experience, the first word that came to Scott Langley's mind was "Incredible."

Sounds about right.

The Illinois senior-to-be, won the program's first NCAA individual title just a few short weeks ago, ended his first major championship in a tie for 16th place, tying for low amateur honors.

"It was a week I'll never forget," Langley said. "It was an amazing week for me. If you told me I was going to get 16th in the U.S. Open coming in, I don't know what I would have said. I'm very happy for how it turned out."

After wrapping up his even-par 71 on Sunday, Langley received a standing ovation. He finished the tournament 8-over 292, which would have earned him in the neighborhood of $100,000. But the Manchester, Mo., native has insisted all month that he would return to Illinois for his senior season.

Illinois golf coach Mike Small was equally impressed by Langley's accomplishments.

"Obviously he exceeded everyone's expectations," said Small, a U.S. Open veteran. "For him to do this in his first professional tournament – a major – to finish 16th is one heck of an accomplishment.

"I think it shows his true potential."

For Langley, the reality of what he accomplished – finishing higher than guys like Padraig Harrington, Tom Watson and Retief Goosen and their combined 13 majors – still hasn't sunk in.

"Not quite yet," Langley said. "It will soon."

Former Illini Steve Stricker shot 73 on Sunday and finished at 299.

"Scott deserves this," Small said. "He works hard and we're happy for him."