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Red Raiders hold off Illini 84-78 to reach 3-0

Cruz Davis scored 20 points to lead No. 16 Texas Tech past No. 3 Illinois on Tuesday. The Red Raiders improved to 3-0 while the Fighting Illini fell to 2-1.

Quincy Nash· AI-assisted, edited by Jake Team

November 11, 20262 min read

Empty basketball court - illustration, Jake Team LLC
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Illinois Fighting Illini78
Texas Tech Red Raiders84

November 10, 2026

Red Raiders secure third win

Texas Tech Red Raiders defeated the Illinois Fighting Illini 84-78 on Tuesday, November 10, at United Supermarkets Arena. The victory improved the Red Raiders' record to 3-0, while the Fighting Illini dropped to 2-1. Cruz Davis was the standout performer for Lubbock, scoring 20 points and adding five assists. Illinois received 19 points from Quentin Coleman, who also recorded four assists.

First half sees Tech lead

The game began with Bassala Bagayoko scoring the first two points for Texas Tech. Cruz Davis quickly extended the home lead with a 27-foot three-pointer. Illinois answered with a 25-foot triple by Tomislav Ivisic, but Davis hit another three-pointer to maintain the advantage.

The Red Raiders built a substantial cushion in the first half, leading 49-29 at the break. Jamichael Stillwell contributed significantly on the glass, finishing with 13 rebounds, while Quentin Coleman provided key scoring for the visitors.

Second half battle

Illinois attempted to close the gap in the second half. Quentin Coleman hit a 26-foot three-pointer, and Tomislav Ivisic added points near the rim. However, Cruz Davis continued to dictate the pace, hitting free throws and pulling up for jump shots.

Donovan Atwell and Damarion Dennis added crucial three-pointers for Texas Tech, keeping the lead comfortable. The Red Raiders managed the clock effectively, limiting Illinois' opportunities to mount a comeback.

Final minutes and records

In the closing minutes, Quentin Coleman hit a 28-foot three-pointer to narrow the deficit, but Cruz Davis responded with an 8-foot pull-up jump shot. The Red Raiders converted free throws to seal the 84-78 victory. This result marks the 49th consecutive nonconference home win for Texas Tech.

The Red Raiders finish the night with a 3-0 record, while Illinois sits at 2-1. The game featured strong performances from both teams, with Texas Tech's balanced attack proving decisive in the final score.

Team contributions

Beyond Davis and Stillwell, the Red Raiders benefited from contributions by Darrion Williams and Donovan Atwell. For Illinois, Tomislav Ivisic recorded six rebounds alongside his scoring efforts. The matchup showcased high-level play from both rosters, with Texas Tech demonstrating superior execution in critical moments.

The attendance of 15,098 fans witnessed a competitive contest that ultimately favored the home team. The final score reflects the Red Raiders' ability to maintain their lead throughout the second half.

Sources

ESPN

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Quincy Nash· AI-assisted, edited by Jake Team

Quincy Nash covers Prosper high school and area college sports.

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