The turnovers were of an unfamiliar sort.
There were sloppy passes. There was constant miscommunication.
Maryland played bully ball. They employed schoolyard tricks. At times, it looked like their players had four arms each.
Shauna Green occasionally looked rattled during the first half of Illinois’ Big Ten Tournament quarterfinal game Friday night against Maryland.
The Terrapins used their size and length to disrupt passing lanes and dominate the glass.
Yes, Makira cook is a star. She’s proven that throughout this breakthrough season for the Fighting Illini.
But she’s not a superhero. Despite her 14 points in the first half, the Illini still went into the locker room suffering from a 41-25 halftime deficit.