Chambana Sun

Illinois secured a 69-57 victory over Southern at the State Farm Center, concluding their nonconference schedule on Friday afternoon. The win marked the Fighting Illini's tenth victory of the season as they prepare for the return of Big Ten play next week. Under head coach Shauna Green, Illinois achieved a 10-1 record against nonconference opponents and won ten games before Christmas for the second time.

Jasmine Brown-Hagger led Illinois with 20 points in her third consecutive start, including a game-high 16 points in the first half. She also contributed five assists, three rebounds, and two steals. Kendall Bostic recorded her fourth consecutive double-double with 14 points and 15 rebounds, moving into a tie for second place on the program's career double-doubles list. Genesis Bryant added 14 points while hitting three 3-pointers and tallying five assists, three rebounds, and a steal. Adalia McKenzie finished with 13 points, three rebounds, three assists, and three steals.

Berry Wallace provided six points off the bench with four rebounds, including three offensive boards. Illinois built an early lead following a 13-2 run after Southern scored first. Despite Southern narrowing the gap to one point early in the second quarter, Illinois maintained control with scoring stretches that kept them ahead.

The Illini held a halftime lead of 39-31 thanks to Brown-Hagger's strong performance in the first half. After both teams struggled offensively at the start of the third quarter, Bryant hit her second trey to re-establish Illinois' double-digit advantage. The Jaguars managed to reduce their deficit again but were unable to overcome another scoring run by Illinois.

In addition to individual performances, team efforts such as outrebounding Southern significantly contributed to securing this win. "Illinois outrebounded Southern," providing them with crucial second-chance opportunities throughout the game.

Looking ahead, Illinois will resume Big Ten play on December 28 against Oregon at State Farm Center.