Illini fall to Purdue 74-67

 

 

By David Just

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Illinois returned to the road and returned to its losing ways Saturday, falling to Purdue 74-67 at the Mackey Arena.

Illinois had the lead the entire first half and more than seven minutes of the second, but second-half turnovers and the usual foul and free throw trouble spurred a 20-3 run by the Boilermakers. Illinois never regained the lead.

Seniors Shaun Pruitt and Brian Randle led the way for the Illini, combining for 30 points and 20 rebounds.

The Illini had a remarkable first half with a 51.9 field goal percentage, including 5-of-8 from beyond the arch.

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Purdue shuts down Illini

Click to view an audio slideshow about the game.

But the second half was, again, a different story. The Illini managed only a 45.8 field goal percentage and a dismal 8-of-17 from the line.