The up and down season for the Illinois Fighting Illini’s mens basketball team took another step toward playing in the NIT. Michigan defeated the Illini Sunday in Ann Arbor 70-61.
The Wolverines (19-7, 9-4) had a great balanced offensive attack in Sunday’s game. Four Michigan players scored in double figures led by Tim Hardaway Jr with 15 points. Trey Burke added 14 points, Evan Smotrycz 13 points, and Zack Novak added 12 points for the Wolverines.
Brandon Paul led the Illini (16-9, 5-7) with 21 points while Tyler Griffey added 18 points off the bench.
Illinois shot just 38.9 percent from the field compared to 50 percent for Michigan.
The Illini are in must win mode now if they have any plans of making the NCAA tournament next month.
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