CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (AP) Illinois didn't play quite as rough as it did in its last home game, a 57-55 escape against Indiana Purdue-Fort Worth on Nov. 29, but the Illini still have some ragged edges in their game.

Tuesday, John Groce's club had to hold off a late charge against Dartmouth for a 72-65 win in Illinois' last non-conference home game of the season.

Rayvonte Rice scored 13 points, including a 3-pointer that helped put Illinois up by double digits late. Jon Ekey also hit a big 3 late in the game as part of his 11 points. Nnanna Egwu and Joseph Bertrand added 11 points each as well, and freshman Malcolm Hill chipped in 10 in a balanced attack by the Illini (9-1).