Illini Dump the Hawkeyes, 76-64
By Jeff Mayfield

[January 26, 2017]  The Illinois Fighting Illini rode a 10-0 run to start the game and kept a solid cushion to the end that led to a 76-64 win over the Iowa Hawkeyes. Illinois’ hot first half shooting in the State Farm Center continued once again at a 55% clip and it’s a good thing because Illinois really cooled down after the break.

Michael Finke came flying off the bench and continued his stellar play of late with 17 points on 3 of 5 3-pointers. Maverick Morgan had another solid game by registering 12 points and 7 rebounds, Malcolm Hill contributed 11 points and 6 rebounds, and Leron Black added 10 points and 7 rebounds. And speaking of rebounds it’s nice to see Illinois win another battle of the boards, 38-36, especially when you consider that last year Illinois couldn’t buy a rebound at Wal-Mart!

In his first start for the Illini, Te’Jon Lucas tallied 6 points, 6 assists and 2 steals. That is significant because Illinois was able to get 18 assists on 26 baskets for the night showing their better ball movement and distribution.

Our Three Stars:

Michael Finke - 17 points, 5 rebounds

Maverick Morgan - 12 points, 7 rebounds

Te’Jon Lucas - 6points, 6 assists=overall good floor leadership

Honorable Mention
Leron Black - 10 points, 7 rebounds-he’s a man on the boards!)

The Illini will head east for a matchup against Penn State this Saturday.

[By JEFF MAYFIELD]

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