CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Illinois took care of business for the second time this season.
After a shaky start Friday night at State Farm Center, Illinois settled in and dominated Kansas City, winning 86-48. Dain Dainja, Jayden Epps, and Terrence Shannon Jr. led the way as the Illini cruised to an easy victory.
Coming off of a comfortable season-opening win over Eastern Illinois, the Illini came out sleep-walking against UMKC, starting just 1-of-18 from the field and 0-of-12 from downtown.
Following the slow start, Dainja dominated with 12 rebounds and 4 blocks at the break. Shannon and Epps picked up the slack as well, finishing the first half with 9 points a piece, giving the Illini a 16-point lead.