What's Happening?
The Illinois men's basketball team, ranked No. 20, achieved a decisive 90-55 victory over Southern University. Key players Jake Davis and Keaton Wagler led the team with Davis scoring 15 points, including five 3-pointers, and Wagler contributing 11 points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds. The Illini, known for their high-scoring games, maintained their strong performance by shooting nearly 60% from the floor and making eight 3-pointers in the first half. Illinois also demonstrated their rebounding prowess, outrebounding Southern 45-26. This win marks Illinois' 19th consecutive victory against current Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) teams, continuing their undefeated streak against such opponents.
Why It's Important?
This victory reinforces Illinois' position
as a formidable team in college basketball, particularly as they close out their non-conference schedule. The team's ability to maintain high scoring and strong defensive plays positions them well for upcoming conference games. For Southern, the loss highlights ongoing challenges, as they have now lost five consecutive games and struggle with a 1-9 road record. The performance of Illinois players like Davis and Wagler showcases the depth and versatility of the team, which could be crucial as they face tougher opponents in the future.
What's Next?
Illinois is set to play against Penn State at the Palestra in Philadelphia, which will be a significant test as they enter conference play. Southern will host Texas Southern, aiming to break their losing streak. The upcoming games will be critical for both teams as they seek to improve their standings and performance in their respective conferences.
