Illinois Sets Record with Historic Blowout Over Missouri in Braggin’ Rights Rivalry
CHICAGO, Ill. — In a night that will be remembered for years in the annals of the Braggin’ Rights rivalry, No. 20 Illinois delivered its most dominant performance ever against Missouri, routing the Tigers 91-48 on Monday. Freshman guard Keaton Wagler emerged as the star, drilling a career-best five 3-pointers and finishing with 22 points to spearhead the Fighting Illini’s historic win.
Illinois (9-3) built an early lead fueled by relentless second-chance points and stifling defense, with Zvonimir Ivisic contributing three blocks during a pivotal stretch that helped the Illini pull away midway through the first half. Wagler, alongside teammates Ben Humrichous and Jake Davis, capitalized on offensive rebounds to hit crucial 3-pointers that extended the lead. The Illini’s defensive intensity was evident as they limited Missouri’s opportunities and forced turnovers.
Despite Missouri’s (10-3) Anthony Robinson II scoring the team’s first nine points and finishing with 12, the Tigers struggled to keep pace. Coach Dennis Gates opted to rest his starters in the second half as the game slipped out of reach, allowing bench players like Sebastian Mack to gain valuable minutes; Mack led Missouri’s reserves with 17 points.
Illinois’ Andrej Stojakovic, the team’s second-leading scorer, briefly exited the game in the first half due to a left leg injury but returned before halftime and energized the crowd with a powerful dunk early in the second half. Tomislav Ivisic also played a key role, adding 14 points and knocking down two early 3-pointers that helped maintain the Illini’s momentum.
The 43-point margin of victory shattered the previous record in this rivalry, which dates back to 1980. The prior largest blowout was Illinois’ 82-50 win in 2005, a season that culminated in a Final Four appearance for the Illini. This emphatic victory not only highlights Illinois’ current form but also signals their potential as a formidable contender this season.
Looking ahead, Missouri will open SEC play at home against No. 22 Florida on January 3, while Illinois prepares to host Southern next Monday. Both programs will be eager to build on their recent performances as the college basketball season intensifies.
For more on college basketball schedules and rankings, visit the NCAA official site. Details on the Braggin’ Rights rivalry history can be found at the Big Ten Conference website. Fans interested in Missouri Tigers updates should check the Southeastern Conference portal. For comprehensive sports news coverage, including analysis and highlights, ESPN remains a leading resource.
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