KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Illinois claimed its first ranked win of the season with a 90-77 victory over No. 19 Arkansas in the Thanksgiving Classic, Presented by 4PT, on Thursday evening at T-Mobile Center. The Illini never trailed in the game, starting with an 11-0 run and maintaining control throughout to improve to 6-1 on the season.

The matchup featured a unique storyline, with twins Tomislav and Zvonimir Ivisic facing off for the first time. Illinois’ Tomislav Ivisic led the way with a stellar performance, posting 21 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks while shooting 6-of-9 from three-point range. Arkansas’ Zvonimir Ivisic contributed 13 points, six rebounds, and two blocks, with most of his scoring coming in the second half.

Illinois received significant contributions across the board. Kasparas Jakucionis notched a career-high 23 points, including 15 in the second half, along with six rebounds and four assists. Kylan Boswell added a season-high 18 points, six assists, and five rebounds, while Ben Humrichous chipped in nine points, all from beyond the arc. Illinois’ three-point shooting proved decisive, as the team hit 15-of-31 from deep, with seven players connecting from long range.

Arkansas battled back multiple times, cutting the deficit to nine points on several occasions, but Illinois consistently answered to maintain its lead. Adou Thiero led the Razorbacks with a career-high 26 points, while Billy Richmond III added 12 points. Johnell Davis facilitated well, finishing with six assists.

The Illini entered halftime with a 49-34 lead, thanks to a dominant first half from Tomislav Ivisic and efficient team play. Arkansas made a push in the second half, but Illinois’ balanced offense and timely three-point shooting helped secure the victory.

The Thanksgiving Classic, Presented by 4PT, was a nationally televised event and marked the first time CBS aired a college basketball game on Thanksgiving. With nearly six million viewers tuning in, the game offered significant exposure for both programs and the event sponsor.

Illinois will open Big Ten play on Dec. 6 against Northwestern, while Arkansas stays on the road to face Miami in the SEC/ACC Challenge on Dec. 3.

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