Illinois takes care of business against Detroit Mercy 89-69

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (AP) — Malcolm Hill led the way for Illinois with 25 points Friday night and the Illini took care of business against Detroit Mercy in Champaign 89-69.

Illinois (4-0) continued its strong start to the season with another complete game from different players in the opening game of the NIT Season Tip-Off tournament.

The Illini had little trouble scoring, shooting 27of 52 from the field and 8 of 19 from 3-point range. Friday marked the second straight game the Illini had difficulty shooting from the free throw line however, finishing 27of 38.

Tracy Abrams continued to have a strong return to basketball, scoring 15 points and finishing with four rebounds.

Detroit Mercy (1-2) had trouble keeping up with Illinois' fast offensive pace from the start of the game — the Titans never held a lead in the game.

__

More AP college basketball: http://collegebasketball.ap.org