DeKALB | There was supposed to be a basketball game on Tuesday night, according to the schedule. Unfortunately, the NIU men’s basketball team took the night off.

The Huskies were blown out by the University of Illinois-Chicago 71-48 at the Convocation Center. The loss is the second in a row for NIU on their home floor.

NIU head coach Rob Judson said he was surprised by his team’s performance.

“I thought UIC started the game on the high level with defensive intensity,” Judson said. “Offensively, we were highly affected by that. They did a nice job double teaming James Hughes.”

Double teaming Hughes wasn’t the only thing the Flames did. They also played solid man-to-man defense to force the Huskies to commit 14 turnovers and shoot 26 percent from the field in the first half. The Flames had also already pushed the lead to 39-17.

UIC guard Josh Mayo said he team defense was the key to success.

“We were making really good plays on the defensive end,” Mayo said. “Your defense leads to offense.”

In this game, the Huskie offense didn’t lead to anything. Seniors James Hughes and Mike McKinney combined for zero points.

Judson said if his team wants to play better, his seniors have to step up.

“I really thought they needed to show us better leadership on the court tonight, “Judson said. “You need that from your seniors.”

The Flames finished the game with four players in double figures. Mayo led the team with 16 points and, along with Spencer Stewart, they were a combined 5 for 5 from behind the three-point line.

NIU guard Quintan Lipkins led the Huskies with 12 points.

Lacy Searcy is a Sports Reporter for the Northern Star.