Aurora, Ill. — Illinois Tech Men's Basketball team faced a tough challenge on Saturday, falling to Aurora University, 103-77, at Thornton Gymnasium. Despite the setback, the Scarlet Hawks showcased their depth with 42 points in the paint and 29 points from their bench. Illinois Tech now stands at 1-4 overall and 1-1 in NACC play, while Aurora improves to 5-3 overall and 2-1 in the conference.

How It Happened

Aurora came out strong, starting the game with a 10-0 run fueled by Devon Richardson's inside scoring. The Spartans kept the pressure on, with Juan Madrigal adding crucial points, including a three-pointer at 16:48. Garrison Carter fought back for Illinois Tech, hitting two 3-pointers, but Aurora's defense was relentless, tallying four blocks and forcing nine turnovers. At the half, Aurora led 57-34, taking advantage of their shooting accuracy and bench strength.

In the second half, Aurora maintained their dominance with a potent offense. Richardson was a force in the paint, scoring consistently, and his layup at 7:47 widened the gap to 92-62. Carter answered with several layups, trimming the deficit slightly, yet Cullen Rauls' three-pointer at 8:33 solidified Aurora's lead. Despite the Scarlet Hawks' best efforts, the gap proved too wide, ending in a 103-77 loss.

Scarlet Hawk Standouts

Garrison Carter  
- 28 points  
- 10/19 field goals made  
- 6/7 free throws made  

Bryce Shoto  
- 14 points  
- 6/11 field goals made  
- 4 rebounds  

Igor Filipovic  
- 10 rebounds  
- 5 points  
- 2 assists  

Obrad Kuzmanovic  
- 8 points  
- 4/7 field goals made  
- 2 assists  

Aurora Top Performers  

Juan Madrigal  
- 21 points  
- 8 rebounds  
- 4 steals  

Devon Richardson  
- 26 points  
- 9 rebounds  
- 12/15 field goals made  

Cullen Rauls  
- 17 points  
- 2 steals  
- 7/14 field goals made  

Mekhi Doby  
- 13 points  
- 6/6 free throws made  
- 2 blocks  

Up Next

Illinois Tech returns home to face Rockford University on Wednesday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. inside the Keating Sports Center.