Posted: 12/13/06 Section: Sports

Media Credit: The Associated Press Missouri's Stefhon Hannah is smothered by the defense of Illinois' Shaun Pruitt (55) and Brian Randle in the second half of their annual "Braggin' Rights" basketball game Tuesday in St. Louis. Illinois defeated Missouri 73-70.

ST. LOUIS - In preparation for Illinois' Tuesday night match-up with Missouri, Jamar Smith said the Illini spent nearly two weeks trying to break down the Tigers' up-tempo, full-court press. Those long practice hours didn't go to waste, though, as Illinois took a 73-70 decision in front of a crowd of 22,153 at the Scottrade Center in the annual Busch Braggin' Rights game. The Illini (11-2) now lead the all-time series 25-12, and Tuesday's victory marks their seventh win in a row over the Tigers (9-2).

But for an Illinois team that in recent weeks had lost close contests to Maryland and Arizona, both Top 25 opponents, the win against Missouri offered validation.

"We found a way to gut out a win," said coach Bruce Weber, who earned his 100th coaching win at Illinois in 118 games against Missouri. "We had chances in Maryland and Arizona and we didn't do it; this time we did it. (It) was a great atmosphere, and this is what the game is about."

The Illini held a small lead for much of the first half, but the Illini found themselves down 36-30 with 4:04 to play after a Stefhon Hannah three-pointer. Illinois trailed 38-35 at half time, and were down by as many as five points before taking the lead for good with 10:06 to play. A Smith three-pointer with 5:04 remaining increased the margin to 65-59, and the Illini were able to hang on down the stretch.

"I thought we had it a couple times and then we missed free throws; they come down and make a big play, and it seems like we found a way and then something would happen," said Weber of the back-and-forth battle. "It was a good experience for our kids."

Junior center Shaun Pruitt led the Illini with 19 points (8-of-11 shooting) and nine rebounds in 33 minutes. With Missouri's intense full-court pressure, Weber knew the Illini's front-court players, especially Pruitt, would see a number of opportunities.

"We knew if we could break the press and get into our half-court offense, he could score," Weber said. "That's not their strength, they also get all strung-out defensively."

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