The Salukis (4-4) led for 75 seconds in the game before losing 78-64.
The Fighting Illini (6-1) had six players score more than 10 points each in the game, led by freshman guard Cierra Rice with 17 points, 12 of which were in the second half.
"This is a tough loss," junior point guard Rishonda Napier said. "We wanted a different outcome, but we've got to take it and learn from it."
The Salukis took their first lead with 2:20 remaining in the first quarter on senior forward Azia Washington's first three-pointer of the season.
The lead was short-lived, as sophomore center Chatrice White put the Illini back on top with a layup 20 seconds later.