UH, Illinois battling for spot in the Elite Eight

Houston closed out the first half on a 6-0 run to cut the Illinois lead to 2.

HOUSTON — The Houston Cougars and Illinois Fighting Illini are battling in a Sweet 16 matchup at Toyota Center for a trip to the Elite Eight.

Houston had a rough shooting first half, shooting only 27 percent, as Illinois had a 24-22 lead at the break.

Kingston Flemings led Houston with seven points, including a three-pointer at the halftime buzzer.

The winner will move on to face Iowa after the Hawkeyes’ win over Nebraska.