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CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – The Illinois men’s basketball team faced another setback in their Big Ten campaign, marking their fifth loss of the season on Friday.
The Illini fell to Michigan with a final score of 84-70.
Initially, Illinois showed promise, securing a 16-11 advantage within the opening seven minutes of play.
Yet, it was former Illini standout Morez Johnson Jr. who found his rhythm, contributing 13 points in the first half and propelling the Wolverines to a seven-point lead by the break.
Despite narrowing the gap to five points early in the second half, Illinois struggled to maintain momentum, ultimately faltering on their home court.
The Wolverines pull away to lead by as many as 21 down the stretch, and win by 14
Illinois struggled to stop Michigan’s front court. Aday Mara and Morez Johnson Jr. scored 19 points each for UM, while Yaxel Lendenborg scored 16.
Keaton Wagler led Illinois with 23 points.
The Illini fall to 22-7 overall and 13-5 in Big Ten play.