ST. LOUIS _ The Missouri Tigers, after looking sloppy in the opening minutes, dominated Illinois in a 63-56 victory Saturday.
The Tigers (7-4) won their second straight Braggin' Rights Game at the Enterprise Center. Mizzou coach Cuonzo Martin's team commanded the second half as Illinois unraveled.
In one stretch, Illinois (8-3) turned the ball over on four straight possessions as the Tigers built a double-digit lead. The Illini made it interesting late in the game as the Tigers struggled against the full-court press. But Illinois failed to mount a comeback as the deficit proved too large to overcome.
"You have to play with boxing gloves, then we'll start playing basketball," Martin said. "I don't say that like we're fighting. They understand what I mean. It has to be a physical game. Do it without fouling."
Mizzou's point guards were the difference. Dru Smith finished with 19 points, including eight straight points to close the first half. Xavier Pinson converted multiple big shots, adding 14 points.
Guard Javon Pickett scored 17 points and collected six rebounds. Saturday's win was his third straight game scoring in double-digits.
But the defense _ a Martin staple _ thwarted Illinois. The Illini started 5 of 7 from the field, but shot 13 of 43 the rest of the way, finishing at 36%. Their prized big man, Kofi Cockburn, scored 13 points, but shot 3 of 9. The 7-foot forward didn't record a rebound until the second half. The Illini did get to the free throw line often (18 for 23).
Illinois guard Ayo Dosunmu led the Illini with 21 points.
Mizzou plays host to Chicago State at 7 p.m. Dec. 30 at Mizzou Arena. Then it's the beginning of SEC play at Kentucky on Jan. 4.
"If we're healthy, I think we're as good as any team going into the SEC play," Martin said. "We have a chance to be as good as anybody barring any major injuries."
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