Depleted Redbirds Struggle and Fall at UIC

Image Courtesy of Illinois State Athletics

NORMAL,Ill. -Illinois State dropped a tough Missouri Valley Conference road contest Sunday, falling 83–56 to the University of Illinois Chicago at Credit Union 1 Arena.

The Redbirds battled early, but UIC seized control late in the first half and never relinquished it. Illinois State struggled to slow down the Flames’ efficient offense, as UIC shot better than 55 percent from the field overall and an impressive 71.9 percent in the second half. That surge after the break proved to be the difference, with the Flames steadily stretching the margin over the final 20 minutes.

Offensively, Illinois State was led by Johnny Kinziger, who finished with 12 points and added a pair of steals. Boden Skunberg chipped in nine points, but the Redbirds were unable to generate consistent rhythm against UIC’s defensive pressure. Second-half scoring droughts made it difficult for ISU to respond as the Flames pieced together extended runs.

UIC received a balanced performance, led by Ante Beljan’s 16 points off the bench. Abdul Momoh and Rashund Washington Jr. each added 13, while Elijah Crawford filled the stat sheet with 12 points, eight assists, and four steals.

With the loss, Illinois State moves to 17–10 overall and 9–7 in Missouri Valley Conference play. The Redbirds will look to regroup quickly as they continue conference action, aiming to bounce back and strengthen their position heading toward Arch Madness in St. Louis.

Illinois State will be back in action on Wednesday to take on the Murray State Racers at home where Jack Morris and Riley Ward will be on the call starting at 7:50 with an 8pm tip off.

For all things Redbird basketball, stay tuned to wznd.com.