CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Illinois’ decisive first-half run proved too much for Oregon to overcome as the Fighting Illini defeated the Ducks 80-54 Wednesday night at State Farm Center. The loss drops Oregon to 11-19 overall and 4-15 in conference play, while Illinois improves to 23-7 and 14-5.
Oregon started strong, scoring the game’s first six points and maintaining a lead for over four minutes. Yet, Illinois responded with a dominant 21-0 run, fueled by efficient shooting, to take control of the contest. The Illini shot 45.5% from the field and 46.7% from three-point range in the opening period, building a 41-21 halftime advantage, according to reports from Newsday.
Nate Bittle led the Ducks in scoring with 15 points, shooting 7-of-15 from the field, and added five rebounds and three blocks. Kwame Evans Jr. Contributed 13 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks, while Takai Simpkins added nine points and five assists. Despite Bittle’s performance, Oregon struggled with its shooting, finishing the game at 32.8% (21 of 64) from the field and a dismal 17.2% (5 of 29) from beyond the arc.
Illinois’ Andrej Stojakovic led all scorers with 21 points, as reported by Newsday. The Illini’s balanced attack and rebounding advantage – 48-36 – proved crucial. Illinois also outscored Oregon 40-14 in bench points, highlighting the Ducks’ struggles to find consistent offense beyond their starters. Illinois finished shooting 40.8% from the field, converting 12 of 14 free throws.
Late in the second half, Oregon managed a 7-0 run to cut the deficit to 13 points, but Illinois quickly extended its lead, ultimately reaching a 30-point advantage with 5:30 remaining. Oregon’s free-throw shooting was a bright spot, converting 7 of 9 attempts (77.8%), but it wasn’t enough to overcome their shooting woes and Illinois’ overall dominance.
Oregon will conclude its regular season schedule by hosting Washington on Saturday evening, with tip-off scheduled for 8 p.m. On the Big Ten Network.
