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Illinois Overcomes Bruce thornton’s Heroic Effort to Claim Big Ten Opener
Illinois secured a crucial 88-80 victory over Ohio state on Tuesday at the Schottenstein Center in Columbus, Ohio, marking a strong start to their Big Ten campaign.Despite a phenomenal individual performance from Ohio State’s Bruce Thornton,the No. 13 Illini demonstrated greater team depth and efficiency, with four players scoring in double figures.
Illini Depth Prevails in Columbus
While Bruce Thornton was nearly unstoppable, Illinois proved to be the more complete team. Thornton ignited the game with a scorching start, making his first nine shots and racking up 24 of his game-high 34 points in the first half. However, the Illini responded with a balanced offensive attack and a decisive advantage at the free-throw line, ultimately securing their first true road win of the season.
Freshman Firepower Leads Illinois
Illini freshman Keaton Wagler led all scorers for his team with 23 points and a team-high five assists. wagler,alongside Tomislav Ivisic,delivered clutch three-pointers in the final three minutes,sealing the victory for Illinois. Fellow freshman David Mirkovic contributed 22 points, shooting an notable 4-for-5 from beyond the arc, and adding nine rebounds. Andrej Stojakovic added 17 points, with 13 coming in the second half, while Zvonimir Ivisic chipped in with 13 points, eight rebounds, and crucial defensive stops late in the game.
Free Throws and Balanced Scoring Key to Victory
In a tightly officiated contest, Illinois capitalized on its opportunities at the free-throw line, sinking 29 of 32 attempts. Ohio state, in contrast, managed only 15 of 21 free throws. This disparity proved critical in a closely contested game. The Illini’s bench also outscored their Ohio State counterparts 15-2, showcasing the team’s overall depth.
Thornton’s Valiant Effort Not Enough for buckeyes
Thornton’s performance (13-for-17 from the field,6-for-9 from three) was nothing short of breathtaking,but the rest of the Buckeyes struggled to find their rhythm. Ohio State’s supporting cast combined for just 15-for-44 (34.1%) shooting from the field and a dismal 3-for-19 (15.8%) from three-point range. Christoph Tilly fouled out with 13 points, while Devin Royal and John Mobley Jr. combined for 26 points on inefficient shooting performances.
Game of Runs and Tight Second Half
The game featured multiple runs and remained tightly contested throughout the second half.Illinois built a 10-point lead early in the second half,but Ohio State responded with a 12-2 run to tie the game. The Illini then regained control, fueled by Wagler and Ivisic’s late-game heroics.
Key Stats
- Illinois shot 32-for-61 (52.5%) from the field and 8-for-19 (42.1%) from three-point range.
- Ohio State shot 28-for-61 (45.9%) from the field and 3-for-19 (15.8%) from three-point range.
- Illinois was 29-for-32 (90.6%) from the free-throw line.
- Ohio State was 15-for-21 (71.4%) from the free-throw line.
- Illinois had 35 rebounds,while Ohio State had 30.
- Ohio State attempted 27 three-point attempts.
- Ohio State made 9 of 27 three-point attempts.
- Illinois outrebounded Ohio State 35-30.
- Ohio State had 13 second-chance points on seven offensive rebounds.
- Ohio state outscored Illinois 32-24 in the paint.
- Ohio State outscored Illinois 12-4 on the fastbreak.
Zvonimir ivisic Emerges as Impactful Reserve
Don’t overlook the impact of Zvonimir Ivisic,who was sensational off the bench for Illinois. While his twin brother, Tomislav Ivisic, struggled with his shot, Zvonimir excelled, capitalizing on post-ups, hitting key three-pointers, and dominating the glass. “Zvonimir would start for most teams,”
