Tribune News Services
Osiris Eldridge scored 19 points to lead Illinois State to a 69-65 victory over Illinois-Chicago Monday night.
Lloyd Phillips scored 15 points and Dinma Odiakosa added 13 points and eight rebounds for the Redbirds (3-0). The Flames (1-2) also had three scorers in double figures, led by Zavion Neely with 17 points. Jeremy Buttell and Robo Kreps each scored 15 for Illinois-Chicago.
The Redbirds shot 48 percent from the field in the first half to build a 34-28 lead at the break. The Flames led by nine midway through the first half.
Both teams struggled from behind the 3-point line. Illinois State was just 4 of 20 and Illinois-Chicago was 4 of 21.
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