Indiana University men's basketball faces No. 8/7 Illinois on the road this Sunday in what marks their first matchup against two consecutive ranked Big Ten teams. The Illini, led by head coach Brad Underwood, hold a record of 20-5, boasting top rankings in offensive efficiency and rebounding. Indiana, currently 17-8, comes off a significant 92-74 win against Oregon, fueled by standout performances from Lamar Wilkerson and Sam Alexis. As both squads aim for victory, the stakes are high in this storied rivalry dating back to 1906.

By the Numbers
  • Illinois has reached 20 wins in seven consecutive seasons.
  • Lamar Wilkerson averages 24.4 points per game in Big Ten play this season.
Yes, But

While Indiana's recent form shows promise, its performance against ranked opponents remains a concern, particularly given Illinois's strong home record and current momentum.

State of Play
  • Indiana has won five of its last six games, with major contributions from Lamar Wilkerson, averaging 30.8 points in recent outings.
  • Illinois ranks in the top 10 nationally for offensive efficiency and rebounding, posing a significant challenge for Indiana's defense.
What's Next

Following the matchup against Illinois, Indiana will continue its road trip, facing another ranked opponent, putting their recent momentum to the ultimate test.

Bottom Line

Indiana must step up against a formidable Illinois team to validate its recent successes and position itself as a strong competitor in the Big Ten, as a win could bolster their postseason prospects significantly.