After a lackluster first half, the Illinois Fighting Illini got things going against the Maryland Terrapins in the second half and got a 71-62 victory on the road for their effort. The win moves Illinois to 7-0 on the season for the first time since 2007-2008, and gives the Big Ten another win in the Big Ten/ACC Challenge.
Maryland actually led for most of the first half, taking a 35-31 lead into halftime, but they couldn't hold onto the lead as the Fighting Illini pushed them in the second half. Illinois was led by senior Sam Maniscalco, a guard that transferred to Illinois from Bradley before the season. He scored 24 points on 6-for-11 shooting, including five three-point shots. Brandon Paul also had a big game for the Illini, scoring 17 points while adding 7 rebounds and 3 assists.
Terrell Stoglin had a strong first half leading Maryland, but he couldn't carry the team in the second half. He finished with 25 points on 8-for-17 shooting. Making free throws really changed the game tonight, as Illinois shot 18-for-20 (90 percent) from the line while Maryland was just 15-for-25 (60 percent).
For more info on the Maryland Terps, check out the Testudo Times blog, and for more coverage of the Illini, be sure to explore Hail to the Orange. Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for live, in-game scores and updates. For more from around college hoops, visit SB Nation's NCAA basketball news hub.