The University of Illinois women’s basketball team delivered a commanding performance on Sunday afternoon, defeating Le Moyne College 100-28 at the State Farm Center in Champaign. Illinois started strong, making its first ten field goal attempts and maintaining a shooting percentage of 57 throughout the game. The victory showcased the depth of the team, with 11 different players scoring, and highlighted a standout performance from freshman forward Cearah Parchment, who recorded 17 points, seven rebounds, and 10 steals.
This win improved Illinois’s record to 6-1 ahead of its upcoming Big Ten opener. The Illini faced Le Moyne, a team struggling with a 1-6 record, making this matchup an opportunity for Illinois to refine its game strategy before entering conference play. The Illini’s defensive efforts were particularly notable, as they amassed 22 steals and consistently disrupted Le Moyne’s offensive flow, holding them to under ten points in each quarter.
Preparation for Big Ten Play
The victory against Le Moyne serves as a crucial tune-up for Illinois as they prepare for their Big Ten opener against Indiana, scheduled for Saturday. The Hoosiers currently hold a strong record of 7-1 and will provide a challenging matchup. Illinois coach Shauna Green expressed satisfaction with her team’s discipline and focus during the game, stating, “I was really, really happy with how these guys came out and really took it to them right away and never looked back.”
With the upcoming game against Bellarmine on Tuesday at 6 p.m., Illinois will have little time to rest. Bellarmine, with a record of 2-7, is coming off a significant loss to No. 23 Louisville, where they fell 100-37. This game will mark the Knights’ fourth contest in five days, presenting an opportunity for Illinois to build momentum before facing the Hoosiers.
Key Takeaways from the Game
The Illini’s lopsided win against Le Moyne was not just about scoring; it also highlighted their defensive prowess and team cohesion. Coach Green emphasized the importance of getting everyone involved in the game, which is vital as they gear up for tougher competition ahead. The ability to hold an opponent to a mere 28 points signifies a well-executed game plan and a strong commitment to defensive principles.
Looking forward, Illinois will need to maintain this level of intensity and focus as they enter the competitive landscape of the Big Ten. The upcoming games will test their skills and readiness, but the foundation laid against Le Moyne could provide the confidence they need to succeed.
