No. 23 Illinois falls in early season test at Marquette

MILWAUKEE, Wis. — No. 23 llinois traveled north for a test on the road early in the season against the Marquette Golden Eagles. Shauna Green’s team never looked quite comfortable, falling behind early after some foul trouble, and never led after the 9:01 mark of the second quarter. Marquette’s Liza Karlen and Jordan King would combine for 34 points as Illinois lost 71-67.

Preseason all-conference honoree Makira Cook was unavailable again. She missed the season opener against Morehead State with a day-to-day injury.

Illinois falls to 1-1 on the season while Marquette remains unbeaten, 2-0.

HOW IT HAPPENED

The first quarter was a tight contest. Both teams had trouble taking care of the ball, with the hosts turning the ball over five times to Illinois’ four. The Fighting Illini would lead 16-14 after the first ten minutes, but fouls on would spell trouble for Shauna Green’s team.

Genesis Bryant and Adalia McKenzie picked up fouls early into the second quarter,…