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Illini duo post career nights in season opener
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- Illini duo post career nights in season opener
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — The Illini defeated Detroit Mercy in an 84-50 in their first showing of the season Wednesday night at State Farm Center. The orange and blue were led by one of the nation's best frontcourts, Cearah Parchment and Berry Wallace, notching a decade-old achievement.
Clearing the glass
The Illini struggled with turnovers early, 15 of their 18 total coming in the first half. However, Illinois never wavered on the boards, out-rebounding the Titans 25-13 in the first half. Wallace (6) and Parchment (5) led the way across the first two periods, in a game that was still within striking distance for the Titans.
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The Illini ultimately pulled away in the second half, outscoring Detroit Mercy 48-18. Parchment and Wallace were Illinois' top rebounders, both finishing with 11 boards. Of Wallace's 11 rebounds, five came on the offensive end, a key part in creating extra possessions for the Illini. The orange and blue ended Wednesday night's matchup with an extremely positive rebound margin, doubling Detroit Mercy, 53-23 on the glass.
Taking it to the basket
A major part in the Illini's victory against Kiefer Haffey's Titans was their relentless attack on the inside. Illinois outscored Detroit Mercy in the paint 38-22 on a solid 45% shooting.
Parchment had a stellar night from the field, shooting 82% on nine makes, only missing both of her three-point attempts. The sophomore standout dazzled Illini fans with a number of crafty post moves to help her squad pull away. Parchment finished the night with 22 points.
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Wallace, likewise, showed a real ability to play some bully ball. The All-Big Ten First-Team selection star shot 8—of-16 from the field and also splashed two shots from beyond the arc. Wallace ended the night right behind Parchment with 21 points.
Putting the nation on notice
Parchment and Wallace became the first Illini teammates to post 20-point double-doubles in a contest since 2013.
Both players have been garnering national attention ahead of this season. Parchment, who was on the All Big Ten Freshman team last year, was named to the Katrina McClain Power Forward of the Year Watchlist.
Wallace has been named to the Cheryl Miller Small Forward of the Year Watchlist, as well as the Naismith Player of the Year Watchlist, an amazing feat for the junior.
The two Illini stars will continue to feed off each other's incredible versatility and look to make a deep run in the postseason this year.
