Chambana Sun

Third-seeded Illinois defeated Morehead State with a final score of 85-69 in the NCAA Tournament's first round at CHI Health Center Omaha. The victory marked Illinois' first tournament win since 2022, as they outscored their opponents by 46-31 in the second half.

Marcus Domask achieved his first career triple-double, contributing 12 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists. This accomplishment is only the sixth triple-double in Illinois' history and the tenth overall in NCAA Tournament history. Domask's performance was capped off with a crucial three-pointer late in the game.

Dain Dainja scored a season-high of 21 points, with 17 coming in the second half. He maintained a perfect shooting record during this period and also added eight rebounds and two blocks to his tally.

Terrence Shannon Jr. led Illinois with 26 points, marking his fifth consecutive game scoring at least 20 points. Shannon's efforts set a new single-season scoring record for Illinois, surpassing Don Freeman's record from the 1965-66 season by one point.

Coleman Hawkins contributed ten points along with five assists and four rebounds. Luke Goode scored nine points from three successful three-point attempts, while Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn added six points off the bench.

Illinois responded strongly after an initial deficit against Morehead State's early lead, going on several runs throughout both halves to establish control over the game. A significant stretch came when Dainja led a scoring run that expanded Illinois' lead to its largest margin during the match.

Illinois will now face Duquesne in the second round of the tournament on Saturday.

"Thursday's win marked the 250th of head coach Brad Underwood's career," noted Illinois' official statement about their coach’s achievement across different institutions including Stephen F. Austin and Oklahoma State.

The Illini improved their historical NCAA Tournament record to 43-34 and are now advancing further into postseason play hoping to continue their successful run.