Illinois 73, Syracuse 44: Orange offense freezes over

The Syracuse Orange found a lid on the basket of the State Farm Center as the Orange offense failed to get anything going against the Illinois Fighting Illini. Syracuse’s defense held out as long as it could but the Orange couldn’t find any offensive rhythm as Syracuse lost 73-44 to Illinois.

Both teams struggled early as inside presence was established quickly. Jesse Edwards and Coleman Hawkins stayed stout in the paint and denied easy opportunities. As the offensive games shifted towards the outside, Syracuse found the first strike. Early perimeter looks from Chris Bell and Benny Williams gave the Orange an early lead, but inside consistency returned for both squads. Neither team built a…