No. 14 Illinois Defeats No. 11 Texas Tech 81-77 Behind Andrej Stojakovic’s Breakout Performance
Champaign, IL – No. 14 Illinois secured a significant 81-77 nonconference victory over No. 11 Texas Tech yesterday, fueled by a team-high scoring performance from transfer wing Andrej Stojakovic.
Stojakovic, who missed much of September and October with a knee sprain, scored 23 points on 11-of-16 shooting, showcasing his skill and size advantage against the Red Raiders. He also contributed three second-half steals and two blocks, including a crucial game-sealing block with nine seconds remaining. “I’m very proud of him,” said Peja Stojakovic, his father and a former NBA All-Star, from the State Farm Center. Kylan Boswell added 22 points for Illinois, while Zvonimir Ivisic filled in admirably for his injured twin, contributing 11 points, seven rebounds, and three blocks.
Despite a strong performance from Texas Tech’s JT Toppin, who led all scorers with 35 points and 10 rebounds, Illinois limited Red Raiders guard Christian Anderson to just eight points on 4-of-12 shooting. The win marks the first nonconference home victory over a ranked opponent during head coach Brad Underwood’s nine-year tenure, potentially bolstering Illinois’s NCAA Tournament resume. For more on college basketball rankings, see the official NCAA website.
The game saw several lead changes, with Texas Tech briefly taking the lead in the second half, but Illinois responded with key runs, including a 17-point surge sparked by Stojakovic. A controversial flagrant foul call late in the game added drama, but Illinois ultimately prevailed. This victory signals Illinois’s potential as a top contender in the Big Ten conference and nationally; you can find more information about the Big Ten Conference here.
Illinois will next host Colgate for an 8 p.m. CT tipoff on Friday.
