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Saturday, November 23, 2024

Illinois defeats SIUE; Jakucionis ties freshman assist record

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Courtney Bay Director of Branding and Creative Media | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website

Courtney Bay Director of Branding and Creative Media | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website

Illinois secured a decisive 90-58 victory over SIUE at the State Farm Center, marking their second win of the season against an in-state rival. The game saw five Illini players scoring in double figures, with Kasparas Jakucionis achieving a double-double by contributing 12 points and 13 assists. This performance made him the first freshman to achieve such a feat since 2021.

Jakucionis' assist tally tied the program's freshman single-game record, falling just two rebounds short of a triple-double. He also recorded one steal and converted nine out of ten free throws.

Tomislav Ivisic was another standout performer, scoring a team-high 18 points and grabbing seven rebounds. Ivisic started strong, making his first four shots from the field and added an assist while shooting four-for-five from the free-throw line.

Ben Humrichous made significant contributions by hitting four three-pointers in the first half and equaling his career-best with a fifth in the second half. His total of 15 points came entirely from these triples, along with two offensive rebounds and two assists.

Tre White set a personal best with three three-pointers as part of his 13-point contribution, alongside five rebounds, one assist, one steal, and one block.

Will Riley continued his impressive start to the season by adding 14 points and seven rebounds to Illinois' efforts. Morez Johnson contributed off the bench with five points and eight rebounds.

The Illini began strongly with scores on their initial five possessions, including key plays from White and Ivisic during an early run that gave them a commanding lead. Despite SIUE's attempts to close the gap, Illinois maintained control throughout.

In addition to individual performances, Illinois displayed effective teamwork by assisting on most of their baskets while holding SIUE to minimal scoring opportunities during critical stretches of play.

Illinois (2-0) will next face Oakland at home on Wednesday night at 8 p.m., with coverage provided by Big Ten Network.

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