First Half
In an intriguing Big Ten matchup, Illinois and Purdue battled it out on Sunday night. It wasn't the start the Boilermakers wanted, as they found themselves down double-digits early (11-0). The Illini came out strong and with energy, creating early second-chance points in the first seven minutes (7-0 advantage early on). Purdue finally got on the board and started to climb back in but still couldn't find their offense, as they shot 30 percent from the floor and 1-for-9 from behind the arc. Illinois was the aggressive team, showing a nice balance offensively inside and out, as well as getting after it on the defensive end to hold a 32-19 halftime lead.
Second Half
The struggles continued for Purdue in the second half, as Illinois continued to hold a double-digit lead early on. The Boilermakers did cut it to nine points with 14 minutes left but it was all Illinois after, as they outscored Purdue 24-7 the rest of the way to cruise to an easy and impressive victory at home. Purdue shot 20 percent from the floor in the second half, while Illinois shot 50 percent.
Overall, the Illini dominated and led throughout as they held a 30-14 edge in points in the paint, a 17-5 advantage in second-chance points, and a 25-5 edge in bench points. Purdue didn't have anyone finish in double figures, while Illinois had three players finish with 12 or more points.
Final: Illinois 63 – Purdue 37
Stats:
Illinois: Alan Griffin 16 points, 12 rebounds/ Kofi Cockburn 12 points/ Trent Frazier 12 points
Purdue: Sasha Stefanovic 8 points/ Eric Hunter Jr. 7 points
Player of the Game
Sophomore Alan Griffin (Illinois): The 6'5 guard continues to play extremely well, as he secured his fourth double-figure game in his last five. Griffin brought a TON of energy off the bench and in only 20 minutes. He was disruptive on the defensive end, active on the boards (six offensive and six defensive rebounds), and showcased what he and the bench bring to this team. The sophomore guard made winning plays vs. Purdue and is continuing his tremendous play as of late. It was Griffin's first career double-double.
Game Stats/Trends
- Purdue struggled tremendously in this one, shooting 15-for-60 from the floor and 3-for-17 from three. They also only recorded six assists and had 11 turnovers.
- Illinois continues to be one of the top teams rebounding wise, outrebounding Purdue 46-34 and recording 12 offensive rebounds.
- Both teams struggled from the free-throw line, as Purdue went 4-for-10 and Illinois went 4-for-8.
Must-See Plays:
Check out these two dunks from freshman Kofi Cockburn
