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The Illinois Fighting Illini are hosting the Northwestern Wildcats on Sunday in a battle of the state's Big Ten teams.
The Illinois Fighting Illini are hosting the Northwestern Wildcats on Sunday in a battle of the state's Big Ten teams. Both teams recently ended three-game losing streaks with wins earlier this week, and could use some momentum as the highly competitive conference schedule continues.
The Big Ten is proving to be one of the most talented conferences in the nation this season, and that's led to some serious challenges for Northwestern and Illinois. The Fighting Illini have fared a bit better against conference foes so far, going 5-4 in conference play compared to Northwestern's 3-6 record, but both teams have endured frustrating losing streaks.
Northwestern beat Nebraska earlier this week to end its losing streak, while Illinois pulled off an upset of then-No. 10 Michigan State. With neither team looking like a lock to make the NCAA Tournament in the spring, each game down the stretch is going to have huge implications for the postseason.
For more news, analysis and commentary on the Northwestern Wildcats, head over to Sippin' On Purple. For more on the Fighting Illini, check out Hail to the Orange. Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more updates, breaking news and recaps for the Northwestern Wildcats.
Northwestern Vs. Illinois Score Update: Wildcats Earn Key Road Win
With Illinois set to hit the road for two straight games against ranked opponents, a victory over Northwestern seemed to be key to continue the momentum from the victory over Michigan St. Unfortunately, the inconsistency of this Fighting Illini team was on display again, as the Wildcats came into Champaign and earned the 74-70 upset win.
The Wildcats delivered an efficient offensive performance in the victory, hitting 60.4% of their shots from the field as a team. John Shurna led the way with 24 points on 11/15 shooting from the field, while Reggie Hearn added 20 points on 7/8 shooting.
While Illinois struggled to get any stops on the defensive end, it had no problem executing offensively. The Fighting Illini shot 54.2% from the field, with Brandon Paul scoring a team-high 22 points on 6/11 shooting. Meyers Leonard was simply brilliant in the loss, scoring 21 points and pulling down a team-high nine rebounds.
For more news, analysis and commentary on the Northwestern Wildcats, head over to Sippin' On Purple. For more on the Fighting Illini, check out Hail to the Orange. Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more updates, breaking news and recaps for the Northwestern Wildcats.
Feb 05 4:15p by Max Mandel