Red Raiders Secure Victory Over Illinois
No. 16 Texas Tech Red Raiders defeated the No. 3 Illinois Fighting Illini 84-78 on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at United Supermarkets Arena in Lubbock. The home team improved to a 3-0 record, while the visitors dropped to 2-1. Cruz Davis was the standout performer for the Red Raiders, finishing with 20 points and five assists.
The game marked the 49th consecutive nonconference home victory for Texas Tech, a testament to their dominance in front of their own fans.
First Half Dominance
The Red Raiders established an early lead that they would maintain throughout the contest. By the end of the first half, Texas Tech led 49-29, a significant margin that set the tone for the remainder of the game. Cruz Davis was instrumental in building this cushion, hitting multiple three-pointers and driving to the basket effectively.
Jamichael Stillwell also contributed significantly on the glass, securing key rebounds that limited Illinois’ second-chance opportunities. The Red Raiders’ offensive efficiency in the first 20 minutes was evident, as they outscored Illinois by 20 points to start the game.
Second Half Adjustments
Illinois attempted to close the gap in the second half, but the Red Raiders maintained control. Quentin Coleman led the Fighting Illini with 19 points and four assists, providing a spark for the visitors. However, the deficit proved too large to overcome.
Texas Tech’s defense remained tight, preventing Illinois from sustaining long scoring runs. Tomislav Ivisic added six rebounds for Illinois, but the team struggled to match the Red Raiders’ consistency. The final score of 84-78 reflected a well-rounded performance from the home squad, who managed the game effectively despite the pressure of hosting a top-ranked opponent.
Final Records and Impact
The victory solidifies Texas Tech’s position as a strong contender in the nonconference schedule. With a 3-0 start, the Red Raiders have shown they can compete at the highest level. Illinois, now 2-1, will look to bounce back from this loss in their upcoming games.
The attendance of 15,098 at United Supermarkets Arena highlighted the high interest in this matchup. Cruz Davis’s 20-point performance was crucial, as was Stillwell’s 13-rebound effort, which controlled the interior. The Red Raiders’ ability to execute under pressure will be tested in future contests, but this win over No. 3 Illinois is a significant statement of their capabilities.
Sources
ESPN
