Illinois tops NU in Big Ten opener

Northwestern hung tough for most of the game, but Illinois proved to be too much, downing the Wildcats 58-44 Thursday night at Welsh-Ryan Arena in the Big Ten opener for both teams.

Five Illinois players scored in double figures -- Lori Bjork (13 points), Lacey Simpson (11), Jenna Smith (11), Danyel Crutcher (10) and Rebecca Harris (10)..

Freshman Amy Jaeschke led the way for the Wildcats, recording the first double-double of her career with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Senior Nadia Bibbs added 10 points.

"It's a 40-minute game and we only played for 30," NU coach Beth Combs said. "Illinois didn't quit and we did. It's as simple as that."

Illinois improved to 9-3 overall. NU fell to 4-9.