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Illinois holds off Nebraska thanks to freshman duo

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Ugly wins are still wins, right?

Nebraska gave Illinois all it can handle, but a late push from the Orange and Blue was enough to get the win and its second consecutive series sweep, 72-56, at State Farm Center on Tuesday night.

“A night we weren’t at our best,” said head coach Brad Underwood . “I think our defense prevailed, that’s what we have to hang our hat on.”

As has been the trend over the last four games, the Illini struggled out of the gates. This time around, Illinois (16-6, 7-4 BIG Ten) began 3-of-15 from the field and were being outscored or equaled by Nebraska guard Sam Griesel for over half of the first period.