Behind Marcus Domask, The Illinois Fighting Illini Dominated Northwestern

Illinois Fighting Illini forward Marcus Domask led four players in double-figures with 32 points in the victory

Despite the dominant win over Farleigh Dickinson last week, the AP No. 9 Illini still had many unanswered questions following the suspension of All-Big Ten Guard Terrence Shannon.

Consider those questions answered. 

All weekend leading up to Tuesday's matchup with Northwestern, Illinois coach Brad Underwood touted his team’s “connectedness.” It was shown as the Illini dominated the Wildcats 96-66.

Four players scored in double figures, but it was Southern Illinois transfer Marcus Domask who led the way with 32 points. It was shy of his career high. Domask displayed his ability to score at all three levels but was at his most dominant playing from the high post.

Domask’s comfort backing down his defenders may remind Illini fans of Penn State’s Jalen Pickett. The similarity of style was noted by Northwestern coach Chris Collins.

“They play very similar to Penn State last year and how they used Pickett," Collins said "… I guess we call it booty ball around here."

Domask was not the only offensive bright spot for the Illini. Grad transfer Quincy Guerrier and Coleman Hawkins scored 14 and 13 points, respectively.

Highlighting the depth further, Justin Harmon racked up 20 points on 4 of 5 shooting from the arc. After an 18-point performance against FDU, Harmon has embraced his role and extended minutes in the absence of Shannon. 

“Justin has simplified his approach and is not trying to do too much," Underwood said. 

It is also important to underline the effort from the Illini defensively, especially from Hawkins. He finished with two blocks and a steal. 

The Illini travel to West Lafayette Friday to take on the AP No. 1 Purdue Boilermakers. 

Sam King is a contributor to Illini Now. He can be reached at sjking258@gmail.com