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Illinois’ focus on toughness, the latest in the WNBA labor situation and a Bulls rookie’s injury lead the Chicago basketball report this week.

Every Tuesday, Tribune writers will provide an update on what happened — and what’s ahead — for the Bulls, Sky and local college basketball teams. Want more? Sign up for our Tribune sports newsletter.

Brad Underwood to Illini: ‘Get tougher’

Illinois coach Brad Underwood was glad his team had an eight-day layoff after the 74-61 loss to Connecticut on Friday at Madison Square Garden.

Underwood said his 14th-ranked Illini, who dropped to 6-2 with the loss, desperately needed practice as they “figure out how to win and be tough.” He was ready to drill them on such matters as they prepare to face No.

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