No. 10 Illinois vs. Eastern Kentucky final: Fighting Illini remain perfect, defeat Eastern Kentucky, 66-53

No. 10 Illinois prevailed Sunday in the battle of unbeatens on Sunday, as they knocked off Eastern Kentucky, 66-53.

Eastern Kentucky entered Sunday's game a perfect 9-0 and hung tough with the Fighting Illni through much of the game, but No. 10 Illinois proved too tough. Brandon Paul led the Illini in a strong rebounding effort, as they grabbed 39 boards to the Colonels' 20. Paul recorded 17 points, nine rebounds and three assists.

Tracy Abrams contributed with yet another hard-fought effort, filling the stat sheet with 13 points, five rebounds, two assists and three steals. Joseph Bertrand scored 11 points on an efficient 4-of-5 shooting performance.

Guard Corey Walden played outstanding to keep Eastern Kentucky withing striking distance. Walden led the Colonels with 21 points. Glenn Cosey added 11 points as the only other Eastern Kentucky player to score in double figures.

The Fighting Illini are now a perfect 12-0 as they head into their matchup with No. 12 Missouri on Dec. 22.