EAST LANSING, Mich. (Chambana Today) — Illinois’ 12-game winning streak came to an end Monday night as No. 10 Michigan State outlasted the fifth-ranked Illini 85-82 in overtime at Breslin Center.
The loss snapped Illinois’ 10-game Big Ten winning streak and a seven-game conference road winning streak dating back to last season. The Illini (20-4, 11-2 Big Ten) had not lost since early January.
Illinois forced overtime on Jake Davis’ two free throws with one second remaining in regulation, but Michigan State (20-4, 10-3) closed out the game at the line, finishing 20-for-23 on free throws.
Despite the loss, Illinois took care of the basketball, committing a season-low four turnovers. The Illini also continued their strong perimeter shooting, knocking down 10 three-pointers. Illinois has made at least 10 triples in 18 games this season, posting a 15-3 record in those contests.
David Mirkovic led Illinois with 18 points, six rebounds, and a career-high six assists. Andrej Stojakovic added 17 points and seven rebounds, while Keaton Wagler scored 16 points, 14 of them coming in the second half and overtime. Wagler went 10-for-12 from the free-throw line.
Tomislav Ivisic contributed 12 points before fouling out in overtime, and Davis finished with six points, including the game-tying free throws at the end of regulation.
