Braggin' Rights on line in Illinois' showdown against Missouri

"People like good stories," Illinois coach John Groce said. "They like to watch giants crash and David rise. We're just worried about getting better. I don't get caught up in all that stuff. As soon as you start worrying about things you can't control, you drive yourself crazy."

What the Illini are thinking about is ending their three-game losing streak against Missouri. No one on this Illinois team has beaten the Tigers.

"A lot of the guys owe them one," said Illini guard D.J. Richardson, who is eager to hoist the Braggin' Rights trophy.

Herb Gould