Sarah Reifsteck Office Manager | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Sarah Reifsteck Office Manager | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Illinois women's basketball team began their season with a victory over No. 19 Florida State, securing an 83-74 win at the State Farm Center. The Illini never trailed during the game, showcasing strong performances from multiple players.
Four players scored in double figures for Illinois. Makira Cook and Adalia McKenzie each contributed 20 points. McKenzie was efficient, shooting 8-for-11 from the field and adding four rebounds, three assists, and one steal. Cook also had five assists, four rebounds, and two steals.
Kendall Bostic made history by becoming the fourth player in Illinois' program to reach 1,000 career rebounds. She scored 18 points after starting the game with seven consecutive successful shots and finished with nine rebounds.
Gretchen Dolan matched her career-high by scoring 11 points off the bench, while Brynn Shoup-Hill set a new personal best with ten rebounds.
The Illini started strongly, taking an early lead of 9-2 through solid defense and effective offense. They maintained their momentum throughout the first half, leading by as many as 17 points before halftime.
In the second half, Illinois managed to keep their lead despite Florida State's efforts to close the gap. The Seminoles reduced their deficit to single digits but could not overcome Illinois' advantage.
The victory marks Illinois' third consecutive season-opening win against a ranked opponent. The team will continue its homestand against Marquette on Sunday night at State Farm Center.
"Illinois (1-0) continues its five-game homestand on Sunday night when the Illini play host to Marquette," reads a statement from FightingIllini.com.
Shauna Green's coaching record improved to "42-25 at Illinois" following this win against Florida State.
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