Illinois women hold off late push to beat Illinois State

Wallace scores 22 as Illini improve to 2–0 ahead of first road trip.

By Elizabeth Hess November 9, 2025 9:35 pm

ContributedElizabeth HessThe Illini jumped out to an early 11–2 lead and led 37–31 at halftime behind 14 first-half points from Berry Wallace.

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — The Illinois women’s basketball team earned its second win of the season Sunday, holding off a late surge from in-state rival Illinois State for a 75–65 victory at home.

The Illini jumped out to an early 11–2 lead and led 37–31 at halftime behind 14 first-half points from Berry Wallace. Wallace finished with 22 points, while Gretchen Dolan added 18.

Illinois State closed the gap to within two late in the fourth quarter, but Illinois held firm to stay unbeaten. The Illini will hit the road Friday for their first away game of the year at Oregon State.