Brandon Paul scored 20 points to lead the Illinois Fighting Illini to the Maui Invitational title with a 78-61 win over the Butler Bulldogs at the Lahaina Civic Center.

Tracy Abrams totaled 17 points and D.J. Richardson and Tyler Griffey each added 14 for Illinois (6-0). Richardson also had a game-high nine rebounds.

Rotnei Clarke was the only player in double figures for Butler (3-2) with 27 points.

After shooting an even 50.0 percent from the floor, including 7-of-17 from 3-point range, Illinois led 39-28 at the end of the first half.

The Illini shot just 45.0 percent in the second half but used an 18-5 edge from the free throw line to secure the win.

Paul was named tournament MVP after averaging 19.7 points per game during the event.

Game Notes