FINAL: Illinois 77, Central MIchgan 59

Jenna Smith (31 points, 12 rebounds) leads Illini to win

News you can't leave work without:

Illinois senior Jenna Smith is on the watch list for the 2010 Naismith Trophy, presented annually to college basketball's best player.

Law on freshman: 'I doubt if she plays' for Illini this season

CHAMPAIGN – With injured freshman Amber Moore out for the season, Illinois sophomore Macie Blinn's perimeter shooting will be squarely in the spotlight for the UI's women's basketball team.

Blinn made the most of Moore's absence in Wednesday's lopsided win against Central Michigan, hitting her first three shots from beyond the three-point arc and finishing with 12 points. She was 4 of 7 on threes.

ILLINOIS 69, CENTRAL MICHIGAN 65

Here's your warning: Do not be surprised if the Chippewas win this game. Yes, Illinois has an edge in talent, but Central Michigan has an aggressive backcourt and a pressing, fast-paced style; that's been a recipe for disaster for the Illini the last couple seasons. Plus, this is the type of under-the-radar game that Illinois has lost lately – remember UAB? Bradley? Montana? The Illini's biggest advantage is under the glass. With an edge in size and bulk, Illinois should dominate inside, especially in rebounding. (N-G prediction record: 1-1)

ACL tear sidelines one of Jolette Law's "Super Six"

How News-Gazette staff writer Tony Bleill voted in this week's Associated Press Women's Top 25 basketball poll:

FINAL: Illinois 85, Siena 53

CHAMPAIGN -- Illinois: offensive juggernaut?