The six game winning streak for Rutgers is now over after suffering a tough 3 point loss on the road to a talented Illinois team. As expected, it was a defensive battle and hard fought game by both sides, but the difference was rebounding and free throws. Usually a strength, Rutgers struggled to assert control on the glass with leading rebounder Myles Johnson battling foul trouble the entire afternoon. Illinois (12-5; 4-2) escaped with a 54-51 victory, but Rutgers showed a lot of character and fight despite the loss.
Akwasi Yeboah knocked down a three-pointer four minutes into the game, giving Rutgers a 10-4 lead early on.