Kasparas Jakucionis scored 21 points, including a decisive basket with just 28 seconds remaining, leading Illinois to a thrilling 80-77 victory over Missouri in the much-anticipated Braggin’ Rights game on Sunday.
For nearly 30 minutes, Illinois maintained control of the game. However, Missouri staged a late comeback, executing an impressive 11-0 run that culminated in Trent Pierce’s layup, giving the Tigers a narrow 68-67 lead with roughly four minutes left.
Jakucionis responded with a crucial straight-on 3-pointer, reclaiming a 75-72 advantage for Illinois with just two minutes to play. Yet, Missouri’s Tamar Bates quickly countered with a wide-open 3-pointer in transition, tying the game at 75 with only 1:14 on the clock.
After trading free throws, Jakucionis, a standout freshman who has now recorded six consecutive games with 20 or more points, expertly navigated the right side of the court. He executed a pivot and sank a turnaround jumper, putting Illinois ahead 79-77 with a mere 28 seconds remaining.
Following a missed shot by Missouri, Kylan Boswell converted one of two free throws, extending Illinois’ lead to three points. Jacob Crews then attempted a 3-pointer for Missouri that could have equalized the score, but it missed.
Boswell demonstrated remarkable accuracy at the free-throw line, making 11 of 12 attempts, while Jakucionis was perfect at 8-for-8. Illinois finished the game with an outstanding 22-of-23 from the charity stripe, in contrast to Missouri’s 28 free throws made at a 76% success rate. The match featured a total of 43 fouls.
In addition to Jakucionis, Boswell contributed significantly with 16 points, nine rebounds, and five assists for Illinois (8-3). Tre White added 13 points while Tomislav Ivisic recorded a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds.
On the other side, Mark Mitchell and Tony Perkins each scored 18 points, and Tamar Bates added 17 for Missouri (10-2), which saw its impressive 10-game winning streak come to an end.
Looking ahead, Illinois will host Chicago State on December 29, while Missouri will face Alabama State on December 30.
