In a thrilling Jimmy V Classic opener at Madison Square Garden, No. 20 Illinois secured a 98-89 victory over No. 11 Florida Atlantic, with Marcus Domask and Terrence Shannon Jr. delivering a combined 49 points in the second half. The Illini, shooting at an impressive 63.2 percent from the field and 90 percent at the free-throw line, showcased their offensive prowess to improve their record to 7-1.
Graduate transfer Marcus Domask from Southern Illinois had a stellar performance, contributing a career-high 33 points along with six rebounds. Fifth-year senior Terrence Shannon Jr. also set a career mark with 33 points, combining forces to lead Illinois to victory.
Florida Atlantic’s seven-foot-1 center Vladislav Goldin stood out for the Owls, posting a career-high 23 points. However, constant foul trouble limited his playing time to just 19 minutes. Johnell Davis added 19 points for the Owls, with five players scoring in double figures.
The game kicked off with both teams experiencing a four-minute scoring drought, but the pace picked up quickly. Florida Atlantic took a 23-18 lead, but Goldin’s foul trouble allowed Illinois to go on a 9-0 run, taking a 27-23 lead with 5:39 left in the first half.
Florida Atlantic regained control to lead 42-39 at halftime. Goldin returned in the second half, extending the lead to 49-42. However, foul trouble once again hindered Goldin, triggering a 14-point run by Illinois led by Domask and Shannon, putting the Illini ahead 56-49 with 14:58 remaining.
Domask and Shannon continued their dominant performance, scoring 42 of Illinois’ first 47 points in the second half. Although Florida Atlantic made a late push, getting as close as 89-87, Illinois secured the win by sinking 9 of 10 free throws down the stretch. The Illini’s efficient offense and strong finish cemented their victory in an action-packed Jimmy V Classic opener.
