Eleko Records Double-Double in Loss at Michigan State

Spartan Defense Stifles Illini Offense

Despite a double-double from freshman forward Kendall Eleko, the Illinois Fighting Illini fell to the Michigan State Spartans 75-63 on Tuesday night in East Lansing.

Eleko Leads Illini Scoring

Eleko finished with 16 points and 10 rebounds, his second double-double of the season. He was 6-of-12 from the field and 4-of-6 from the free throw line.

Junior guard Trent Frazier added 13 points for Illinois, while sophomore guard Ayo Dosunmu had 12 points and six rebounds.

Spartans Control the Paint

Michigan State dominated the paint, outscoring Illinois 36-16. The Spartans also had a 42-31 rebounding advantage.

Junior forward Xavier Tillman led the Spartans with 18 points and 12 rebounds, while sophomore forward Aaron Henry added 16 points.

Illinois Struggles from the Field

The Illini shot just 38.2% from the field, including 28.6% from three-point range.

Michigan State, meanwhile, shot 46.7% from the field and 38.5% from three-point range.

Spartan Defense Dominant

The Spartans' defense held Illinois to just 31.3% shooting in the second half.

Michigan State also forced 11 turnovers.

Tough Loss for Illini

The loss drops Illinois to 6-3 on the season.

The Illini will return to action on Saturday when they host the Iowa Hawkeyes.