Illinois 71, UIC 66

Ugh! I think I hated watching this Lexus "December to Remember" game as much as Coach Bruce Weber says he did.

After an average first half that led to a comfortable 37-22 halftime lead, the Illini seemed to go into "play not to lose" mode. The Flames cut that 37-22 lead down to just 37-33 in the opening minutes of the second half to get back in the game. UIC shot just 27 percent in the first half and improved to 50 percent shooting in the second 20 minutes (where was the Illini defense in the second half???).

Rich McBride led the Illini with 13 points. Chester Frazier chipped in with 10 points for the Illini and Brian Randle - who had missed the previous nine games following groin surgery - had nine points and nine rebounds.

Othyus Jeffers, who led UIC's comeback, scored 13 of his 16 in the second half. Josh Mayo added 13 for the Flames (5-5).

About the only good news from this game: The Illini (9-2 overall, 0-0 in the Big Ten) are now 29-6 all-time at the United Center and 12-1 against UIC.

Next up: versus Belmont on Sunday, December 17 at the Assembly Hall in Champaign.

Illinois 71, UIC 66