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 They
finally got away from a slow start. Instead they got off to good
start and kept stretching it until halftime-give or take a couple of
possessions. That led to a 42-28 lead at intermission. In fact,
Illinois led from start to finish in this one on their way to an
entertaining 79-65 victory. This win stopped a two-game home losing
streak and moves the Illini to 6-3 in the league and 10-5 overall.
The lead could have been more. Maybe much more. But things got very
chippy just before half and a little bit after half and it disrupted
the fast, smooth flow of the game. However, for the most part
Illinois kept its composure and kept doing the things that got them
the lead.
The Illini were pitching the ball into the post and around the
perimeter using ideal spacing and good ball reversals with pin-point
accuracy. The outstanding passing acumen of this team led to 18
assists on 26 made baskets. The Illini also improved at the charity
stripe sinking 20-28 freebies. Illinois shot 46% from the field
while limiting the Lions to a stingy 34% on the night. They also
tallied a season high with 8 blocked shots in this contest.
Kofi Cockburn continues to lead all NCAA players on his magical
two-season run with his 11th double double of the year in just 15
games. Ayo Dosunmu is so unselfish but still hit double figures for
the 30th straight game! He passed up chances to make sure he got to
double figures a few different times late in the game and just shows
his maturity as a leader! Trent Frazier had one of his better games
of late tallying 13 points on the evening. Adam Miller continues to
shoot it well chipping in 9 points. [to top of second column] |
Jacob Grandison started in Da’Monte Williams’ spot as he is
still nursing a bum ankle and Jacob acquitted himself nicely and
the two of them combined to bring just what was needed at just
the right times. Coleman Hawkins also had a nice outing as he
appears to be getting more and more comfortable as he logs more
playing time. And a nod to Giorgi Bezhanishvili and Andre
Curbelo for solid games last night as well.
All in all, a very good night from the State Farm Center. As far
as what the schedule says Illinois isn’t contracted to play
again until a week from Friday hosting Iowa on January 29th.
However, the Big Ten could slide in a make-up game at some point
in between. Stay tuned for any schedule updates. [By JEFF MAYFIELD]
Respond to the writer at
jeffqmay@gmail.com.
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