Good morning, Chicago.

Whenever No. 8 Illinois chipped away at No. 11 Alabama’s lead late Wednesday night, the crowd of 17,775 fans at the United Center would roar.

Alabama’s Labaron Philon Jr. answered every time, telling the Illini fans in Chicago to pipe down with a drive or a tip-in or a 3-pointer. Philon, a sophomore guard, scored 19 of his 24 points in the second half, including nine straight in about 98 seconds, to help lift the Crimson Tide to a 90-86 victory.

Illinois guard Andrej Stojaković led all scorers with 26 points but also had five of Illinois’ 11 turnovers and was 2-for-5 on free-throw attempts. Illinois shot 13-for-22 from the free-throw line.

Alabama coach Nate Oats was complimentary of the Illini, saying he thinks they could be in national championship contention in a few months, given their talented mix of big men and guards. Said Illinois coach Brad Underwood: “I hope to see them in the Final Four."

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