WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – A three-point basket from Johnny Kinziger with two seconds remaining on the clock secured a 78-75 victory for Illinois State over the Wake Forest Demon Deacons on Sunday afternoon. The win marks the Redbirds’ first against an ACC opponent since December 5, 2006, when they defeated the Miami Hurricanes.
How It Happened
Illinois State began the game with a three-pointer from Landon Wolf, but Wake Forest quickly responded with 10 consecutive points. The Redbirds then scored six of the next eight, only to be answered by another six-point run from the Demon Deacons. Trailing 18-9, Illinois State rallied, scoring 15 of the next 19 points, including a nine-point streak, to take a 24-22 lead with 5:13 left in the first half. The first half concluded with the score tied at 32.
Wake Forest briefly led by one point early in the second half before going on a six-point run to establish a seven-point advantage. The Demon Deacons extended their lead to nine points with 9:21 remaining, but Illinois State answered with five straight points, including a three-pointer by Johnny Kinziger. The Redbirds then took their first lead of the second half with an 8-0 run, capped by a three-pointer from Ty Pence, to lead 63-60. The lead changed hands four times and was tied five times before Kinziger’s game-winning shot.
Key performances included 17 second-half points each from Kinziger and Ty Pence, with Pence achieving a career-high 23 points overall. This win represents Illinois State’s first time with at least two victories in the NIT since the 1995-96 season, when they defeated Mount Saint Mary’s and Wisconsin.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Illinois State last win against an ACC opponent before today?
Illinois State’s last win against an ACC opponent prior to Sunday’s game was on December 5, 2006, against the Miami Hurricanes.
What was the final score of the game between Illinois State and Wake Forest?
The final score was Illinois State 78, Wake Forest 75.
Who scored the game-winning basket for Illinois State?
Johnny Kinziger scored the game-winning basket with a three-point shot with two seconds left on the clock.
The Redbirds will advance to play the Dayton Flyers on Wednesday, March 25, though the game time and broadcast network are yet to be announced. Will Illinois State be able to maintain this momentum as they head into their next matchup?
