Nov. 12, 2002

Final Stats

Senior Brian Cook, after a slow start, scored 21 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to spark the Fighting Illini men's basketball team to a 91-41 victory in the exhibition opener Tuesday evening at the Assembly Hall.

Nick Smith also added 15 points and five rebounds in the Illini win. With the help of sophomore Roger Powell's 7 rebounds and freshmen Kyle Wilson and James Augustine's seven and five, respectively, the Illini held a rebounding advantage of 55-38.

After a 18-18 tie with 6:20 left in the first half, the Illini offense exploded going on a 19-6 run to end the half. Brian Cook led the charge contributing seven points in the run. The Illini continued the assault to start the second half on a 23-2 run. The run was sparked by the Illini defense, which only allowed the Spotlight Jammers to shoot 12.5 percent in the second half from the field and 19 percent for the game.The Ilini speed on defense helped to create 24 turnovers for the Spotlight Jammers. Brian Cook's aggressive play led the team with three steals, while the team combined for a total of 10.

The Illini offense had 25 assists, was led by sophomore Luther Head with six. The Illini offense shot 52.1% from the field and 33.3% from behind the arc for the game.

The Illini hope to continue their winning ways in the final exhibition game against EA Sports All-Stars Friday night at 7p.m. at the Assembly Hall.