Illinois Rolls Past Penn in 112-70 Win

Illinois overwhelmed Penn 112-70 at the State Farm Center in Champaign on November 5, extending its strong start to the season. The Illini, who scored 120 in their opener, improved to 2-0 by shooting 58.9% from the floor and making 10 three-pointers.

Six Illinois players reached double figures. Andrej Stojakovic led with 25 points, followed by Quentin Coleman with 19 and reserve Zavier Zens with 18. Ethan Brown added 13 points and 10 rebounds, while Lincoln Williams had 12 points and nine rebounds. No Illini played more than 27 minutes.

Illinois also controlled the boards, 62-33, and held Penn to 29.1% shooting. The Quakers stayed close for about six minutes before a 14-0 Illinois run opened a commanding lead. Penn forced 19 turnovers and recorded 12 steals, but struggled to convert its shots, including going 10-for-35 from three-point range.

Penn senior Michael Zanoni led his team with 16 points, and Lucas Lueth added 14. Penn coach Fran McCaffery said his team showed composure at times but did not sustain it throughout the game. He also noted that Illinois’ focus on Penn’s Power limited his opportunities, though he said Power had good looks.

The teams met in March’s NCAA tournament, when Illinois beat Penn 105-70. Illinois’ early results have been dominant, but its first two opponents have not yet tested it against the tougher competition ahead.