CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Illinois men’s basketball handily beat Penn State, 91-52, on Wednesday, bouncing back after a close call at Washington. Despite the absence of their standout freshman, Kasparas Jakucionis, due to a strained forearm injury, the Illini delivered one of their most dominant performances of the season.
Jakucionis, who had been averaging 16.4 points per game and was recently named to the Wooden Award watch list, was a notable absence, but the team stepped up in his absence. It didn’t take long for Illinois to find their rhythm after an initial period of adjustment.
The biggest individual performance of the night came from forward Ben Humrichous, who added a career-high 21 points and nine rebounds, including a 19-point first half. Humrichous’ performance helped Illinois overcome an early 11-5 deficit, as the Illini turned things around with a 15-0 run led by Tre White, who also had a strong night with 20 points and seven rebounds.
Morez Johnson Jr. contributed 20 points, 11 rebounds, in a breakout game. Kylan Boswell, filled in for Jakucionis with six assists and three steals. Tomislav Ivisic contributed seven rebounds and two blocks, playing a crucial role defensively despite not scoring until the second half.
The win brings Illinois to 11-3 on the season and 4-1 in Big Ten play. They next host USC on Saturday.
