Paul Schmidt Athletic Trainer | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Paul Schmidt Athletic Trainer | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Illinois secured a decisive victory over No. 15 Michigan with a 93-73 win at Crisler Center on Sunday afternoon. This marks Illinois' ninth consecutive triumph over the Wolverines and their fourth win against a ranked opponent this season.
Key players for Illinois included Kylan Boswell, who contributed 17 points, nine rebounds, four assists, two blocks, and a steal. "Scored in double figures for the third consecutive game and 19th of the season," noted the postgame notes. Tre White achieved his second double-double of the season with 19 points and 11 rebounds, alongside two steals and a block.
Will Riley added to the team's success with 13 points, five assists, and four rebounds. Kasparas Jakucionis was instrumental in the second half with 14 of his total 17 points scored during that period. He also recorded six rebounds and four assists.
The Illini's performance on the boards was significant as they out-rebounded Michigan 43-32 and converted those opportunities into 30 second-chance points from their 19 offensive rebounds.
The game remained close initially, but Illinois took control after an early tie at 41 by executing an effective run that extended their lead significantly in the second half. The team maintained this momentum to secure a comfortable victory by a margin that reached up to 21 points late in the game.
Illinois now stands at an overall record of 19-11 and holds an 11-8 mark in Big Ten play. They will conclude their regular season facing No. 20 Purdue at State Farm Center on Friday night.