Chambana Sun

No. 24 Illinois faced a decisive defeat against No. 11 Maryland in the Big Ten Tournament quarterfinals, concluding with an 88-65 score at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Kasparas Jakucionis delivered a strong performance, achieving his fifth double-double of the season with 15 points and 10 rebounds, alongside four assists and one steal.

Will Riley also contributed significantly, scoring 15 points, including two three-pointers, while securing seven rebounds and providing an assist. Kylan Boswell maintained his streak by scoring in double figures for the sixth consecutive game, totaling 14 points with additional contributions of three rebounds, an assist, and a block.

Tre White added eight points to Illinois' tally along with two rebounds, an assist, and a steal. Off the bench, Morez Johnson Jr. scored six points and dominated defensively with nine rebounds and four blocks.

Jakucionis' performance tied him for third on Illinois' freshman list for most double-doubles in a season with Deon Thomas (1990-91). He also surpassed Thomas to secure the second spot on the Illini freshman scoring chart with 465 points.

Boswell's consistent form saw him score in double figures for the 22nd time this season. Meanwhile, Riley's contribution marked his fifth consecutive game scoring in double digits.

Tomislav Ivisic ended the game with four points, six rebounds, and a block. He continued his streak of hitting at least one three-pointer per game across 25 games this season.

Illinois set a new team record by recording eight blocks during this match-up against Maryland. Despite being outrebounded by Illinois (47-38), Maryland emerged victorious as Illinois made its first-ever tournament appearance against them.

This loss moved Illinois to a record of 10-15 when playing as the lower seed in Big Ten Tournaments. The Illini have now faced No. 2 seeds seven times in such tournaments but have only secured two wins.