Bold headline: Illinois Stumbles at Home as a Last-Second 3 Sinks the Illini
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — In a heartbreaker at State Farm Center, the 13th-ranked Illinois fell to 23rd-ranked Nebraska 83-80 on a buzzer-beating 3-pointer as their Big Ten home opener wrapped up.
Kylan Boswell led Illinois with a game-high 20 points, pouring in 12 of them in the first half. He also pulled down three boards, including a pair on the offensive glass, and handed out three assists.
Andrej Stojakovic provided a strong second-half surge, scoring 12 of his 19 points after the break while collecting 10 rebounds for his first double-double of the season. He added an assist and a block for good measure.
Keaton Wagler came through with 19 points and notched a career-best 10 assists, adding one block and one steal to complete his first career double-double.
Looking ahead, Illinois will hit the road for their next game in St. Louis on December 22, when they renew the annual Braggin’ Rights clash with Missouri. The Illini will face the Tigers at Enterprise Center at 7:00 p.m. CT, with coverage on FS1.
HIGHLIGHTS
Coming soon.
PRESS CONFERENCE
Coming soon.
POSTGAME NOTES
Coming soon.
Players Mentioned
- Kylan Boswell
- Andrej Stojakovic
- Keaton Wagler
Discussion prompt: This result stings, but does it reveal a trend or raise questions about Illinois’ ability to close tight games against high-caliber opponents? Share your thoughts below on what adjustments you’d make for the next matchup, and whether Nebraska’s late 3-pointer should spark concerns about Illinois’ late-game defense or simply be chalked up to a well-executed clutch moment.
