CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Illinois let out its frustration in dominant fashion in the final game of the calendar year.
In their first contest as an unranked team this season, the Illini needed to make a statement Thursday night. They did just that, winning with authority over Bethune-Cookman 85-52 at State Farm Center.
With Skyy Clark out nursing a shoulder injury, Sencire Harris was thrust into a starting spot. The freshman guard looked like a seasoned vet playing strong at both ends of the court.
But it was Dain Dainja who led the way in scoring with 22 points, while Coleman Hawkins had a team high in rebounds with 11 and four assists.