Terrence Shannon and Quincy Guerrier lead Illinois to dominant win over Missouri

In a commanding performance at the 43rd annual Braggin' Rights game, the 13th-ranked Illinois men's basketball team secured a decisive 97-73 victory against the Missouri Tigers at the Enterprise Center on Friday. Terrence Shannon Jr. and Quincy Guerrier led the charge, scoring 30 and 28 points, respectively, showcasing their offensive prowess. 

With four players in double figures, including Coleman Hawkins with 15 points, the Fighting Illini dominated the boards with 51 rebounds, 16 of which converted into crucial second chance points. Defensively, Illinois stifled Missouri, holding them to 39.2 percent shooting and 22.2 percent from beyond the arc. 

In a stellar performance, Terrence Shannon Jr. led the Illinois men's basketball team to a resounding victory, scoring 30 points, securing a season-high 11 rebounds, and delivering four assists. Shannon demonstrated his scoring prowess in the first half, contributing 17 points, including successful 3-point attempts.

Quincy Guerrier also delivered on the big stage, setting a career-high with 28 points and eight rebounds. He showcased consistency with two 20-point performances in the last three games and a streak of at least 15 points in three consecutive contests. Guerrier's proficiency from beyond the arc continued, making at least two 3-pointers in three straight games.

Coleman Hawkins contributed significantly, scoring 15 points, securing seven rebounds, and providing three assists. His first-half performance was particularly noteworthy, knocking down three 3-pointers and scoring 13 of his 15 points.

Illinois dominated defensively, holding Missouri to 39 percent shooting from the floor and an impressive 24 percent in the first half. The Illini also limited Missouri to 1-for-17 from beyond the arc in the opening 20 minutes, marking a season-low for their opponents. The rebounding game was a highlight, with Illinois boasting a 51-35 advantage, including a 16-12 edge on the offensive glass. This marked the sixth game with at least 50 rebounds for the Illini.

Additionally, Illinois showcased their offensive effectiveness with 40 points in the paint and a season-high 11 3-pointers. The victory reinforced Illinois' defensive prowess, holding opponents to under 40 percent shooting for the seventh time this season. The Illini's strong rebounding and offensive efficiency underscored their dominance in this impressive performance.

Catch the Fighting Illini live as they take on Fairleigh Dickinson on December 29th (Friday) at 8 pm CT. The action unfolds in Champaign, Ill., at the iconic State Farm Center. Tune in to BTN for televised coverage or catch the game on the Busey Bank Illini Sports Network via radio.