Illinois defeats Penn State 65-73
Illinois Outlasts Penn State in Thrilling 8-Point Victory
The Bryce Jordan Center was electric on Tuesday night as the Illinois Fighting Illini (AWAY) edged the Penn State Nittany Lions (HOME) 73-65, handing the home team its first conference loss of the season.
The matchup was a classic clash of styles, with Illinois' high-powered offense facing off against Penn State's stout defense. In the end, it was the Illini who came out on top, thanks in large part to their ability to contain Penn State's star guard Kayden Mingo.
Mingo, who led the Nittany Lions with 16 points, struggled from beyond the arc, hitting just 2-8 three-point attempts. Despite his efforts, Illinois' defense was able to shut him down, holding him to a mere 41.7% field goal percentage.
Meanwhile, Illinois' offense was clicking on all cylinders, with Kylan Boswell leading the way with 18 points. The senior guard's efficient shooting (2-5 three-point attempts) and all-around playmaking abilities made him nearly unstoppable at times.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading baskets and neither able to gain a clear advantage until the final minutes of the contest. Illinois' David Mirkovic provided a spark in the second half, scoring 7 points in the period to help his team pull ahead for good.
In the end, it was Illinois' superior rebounding and free throw shooting that proved to be the difference-maker. The Illini outrebounded Penn State 48-37, while also converting 23 of 28 free throws compared to the Nittany Lions' 9-14.
The largest lead of the game came when Illinois took a 15-point advantage with just over 5 minutes remaining in the second half. While Penn State made a late push, it was too little, too late as the Illini held on for the 8-point victory.
Box Score Highlights:
* Kylan Boswell (Illinois): 18 points, 2-5 three-point attempts
* David Mirkovic (Illinois): 13 points, 10 rebounds
* Kayden Mingo (Penn State): 16 points, 2-8 three-point attempts
Advanced Stats:
* Illinois' True Shooting Percentage: 53.4%
* Penn State's eFG%: 40.6%
With the win, Illinois moves to 12-5 in conference play, while Penn State falls to 10-6. The loss marks a rare defeat for the Nittany Lions at home, and will undoubtedly be a topic of discussion among coaches and fans alike.