Illinois falls 78-69 to No. 19 Ohio State behind Jaloni Cambridge’s career-high 41 points – Chicago Tribune

abdulmanannet77@gmail.comJanuary 8, 2026

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CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Jaloni Cambridge scored a career-high 41 points, 29 in the second half, and No. 19 Ohio State beat Illinois 78-69 Wednesday night, ending the Illini’s 10-game home winning streak.

Cambridge scored 12 of Ohio State’s 16 points in the third quarter and the Buckeyes took a 52-46 lead into the final quarter. She scored seven more points early in the fourth, leading to a 61-48 Ohio State lead.

The Illini cut their deficit to five points with about 2 minutes left, but Cambridge responded with a 3-pointer and a layup to give Ohio State a 73-63 lead with 1:13 left. She scored 17 points in the quarter, making 6 of 8 shots, including 2 of 3 from 3-point range, and added three free throws.

Chance Gray scored 18 points and Kylee Kitts added 10 for Ohio State (14-2, 4-1 Big Ten). Cambridge had six rebounds and six assists.

Cearah Parchment scored 20 points and Berry Wallace added 17 for Illinois (13-3, 3-2).

Cearah Parchment scored nine points in the first quarter and the Illini led 22-19 heading into the second period.

Ohio State took the lead on a 7-0 run and led 28-26 2 1/2 minutes into the second quarter. It was the 12th of 15 lead changes in a tight first half, including 11 in the first quarter. The score was tied at 36 at halftime.

Illinois lost twice in a row after being ranked No. 1 at the time. 7 Maryland its first loss last Thursday.

Ohio State’s only losses are to No. 1 Connecticut and No. 4 UCLA.