CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – The Fighting Illini men’s basketball team earned their first victory over a ranked opponent this season with a decisive 90-77 win against No. 19 Arkansas at the Thanksgiving Hoops Classic. The Illini showcased deadly efficiency from beyond the arc, never trailing in their dominant 13-point triumph at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City.
Illinois forward Tomislav Ivisic stole the spotlight in a unique sibling showdown against his twin brother, Arkansas’ Zvonimir Ivisic. Tomislav notched his fourth double-double of the season with 21 points and 10 rebounds, including a career-high six 3-pointers. He added three blocks, two steals, and two assists.
The Illini also leaned heavily on guard Kasparas Jakucionis, who tallied a career-best 23 points, with 15 coming in the second half. Jakucionis shot 7-for-13 from the field and went 7-for-8 from the free-throw line while chipping in six rebounds and four assists.
Guard Kylan Boswell contributed a season-high 18 points on 6-for-10 shooting. He dished out a team-high six assists, grabbed five rebounds, and added a block and a steal. Forward Ben Humrichous added nine points, all coming from 3-point range, to complement Illinois’ perimeter barrage.
The Illini’s success from beyond the arc was the difference-maker, as they drained 15 of 31 attempts. Seven players hit from deep, with three recording multiple 3-pointers in the game.
The Illini now turn their attention to the start of Big Ten play. They’ll face in-state rival Northwestern on Friday, December 6, at Welsh-Ryan Arena in Evanston. Tipoff is set for 8 p.m.