The Iowa Hawkeyes could not stay with hot-shooting Illinois as the Hawkeyes dropped an 87-77 decision in their Big Ten opener in Iowa City.  Illinois hit a sizzling 66 % for the game, made 13 of 18 shots from three point range and took control with a 17-0 run in the opening half.

Iowa coach Fran McCaffery says they were slow on their rotations in the first half, but got better in the second half. He says the Illini are tough to guard as they do a great job of making the extra pass and they are unselfish. McCaffrey says they got open shots because of their passing.

Matt Gatens led Iowa with 21 points as the Hawkeyes fall to 7-6.