CARBONDALE (WSIL) -- ¾ÅÓÎÌåÓý Illinois was once down ten points in the first half, but found a way to upend Loyola (Chicago) 68-63 Wednesday night.
The Salukis were led by senior McGill, who had a game high 27 points. SIU trailed 33-23 with 4:17 remaining in the first half. The Ramblers did a good job of limiting Marcus Domask and Barret Benson touches. Eric McGill was 4-4 to start the game and gave the Salukis a much needed lift to stay within striking distance. To close out the first half, Benson hit a three pointer, made a layup and Domask hit his first basket with a three pointer. SIU trailed 33-31 at the break but momentum was on their side.
McGill took over in the second half and during a stretch, he made four straight baskets to give SIU a six point lead.
Loyola would tie the game at 56 with 4:41 to play but a layup and three-pointer by Bentson put SIU up for good. Benson chipped in with 13 points, 9 rebounds.
The play of Benson and McGill were key to the victory but Coach Bryan Mullins was quick to point out the home crowd was a factor too.
"The whole place, I didn't look around much but after the game, after the handshake line, just seeing the students behind me, it was just great," Mullins said.
"I am extremely appreciative. I know how much the guys love it and how much they enjoy playing here. I've said it before, as soon as we are done with the road game and have a home game, they are already talking about can't wait to get back to the Banterra Center and play so it really is a home court for us."
SIU improves to 6-3 in the Missouri Valley Conference. On Saturday, the Salukis are at Drake, 5 PM start.
