CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — The Illinois Fighting Illini couldn’t overcome a second-half surge by No. 3 Michigan, falling 84-70 at the State Farm Center on Friday night in a highly anticipated top-10 matchup. Illinois, ranked No. 10, had entered the contest riding a nine-game win streak against the Wolverines, but Michigan’s explosive offense and sharp shooting proved too much to handle.
Keaton Wagler led the Illini with 23 points, marking his ninth 20-point game of the season. Despite a strong individual performance, the Illini were outpaced by Michigan’s offensive firepower, which shot an impressive 60% from the field in the second half.
David Mirkovic added a double-double, finishing with 12 points and 10 rebounds, while Kylan Boswell chipped in 15 points. The Illini battled through the first half, entering the break trailing 38-31, but a key run by Michigan midway through the second period sealed the game for the visitors.
The loss dropped Illinois to 22-7 overall and 13-5 in Big Ten play. The Illini will look to rebound in their final home game of the season, hosting Oregon on Tuesday for Senior Night.
