CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Hustle plays and rebounding were a key part of Illinois basketball snapping a two-game losing streak in the 83-74 win over Northwestern.

“That was a statement,” freshman Morez Johnson Jr. said.

“It’s not going to be easy to come in here and get a win.”

The Illini controlled the glass with a 50-27 edge in the rebound battle, including 21 offensive boards.

Kylan Boswell led the way in scoring with 17 points as Johnson Jr. (15) Ben Humrichous (14), Jake Davis (11) and Kasparas Jakucionis (11) all scored in double figures.

The Illini got off to a fast start, taking a 20-5 in the first half and never giving up the lead from there.

Illinois shot 44.6% for the game, but going 6-16 from 3-pt range in the first half helped build that advantage.

Next up for the Illini is a trip to Nebraska to face the Huskers Thursday, January 30.