Three Takeaways from tough road loss to Illinois

The Hoosiers can't find any good fortune on the road this season. The State Farm Center was unkind as the Hoosiers fell short in Champaign 70-62 against interstate rival Illinois. The loss drops Indiana 12-8 (4-5) to 0-4 on the road. Malik Reneau scored 21 points and grabbed seven rebounds, and Makenzie Mgbako scored 12 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in a losing effort.

Center Kel'el Ware was out for a second consecutive game after suffering an ankle injury during practice. He also missed Indiana's loss on the road against Wisconsin. His loss was felt as the Hoosiers struggled to find other consistent scoring options outside of Reneau.

The game was close from start to finish. Illinois took a four-point lead into the half despite Indiana leading by as many as eight points in the first frame. The Hoosiers had an opportunity to win late in the second half. Mackenzie Mgbako hit a jump shot to tie the game at 62 with 1:28 left in the game. The Hoosiers did not score again.

Terrance Shannon hit six free throws down the stretch to put the game away for the Illini. Marcus Domask led the Illini with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Here are three takeaways from this afternoon's game.