EVANSTON, IL (Chambana Today) – Fighting Illini men’s basketball will face off against Northwestern at Welsh-Ryan Arena in Evanston tonight at 8. Last season, Illinois crushed Northwestern by 30 points at home, only to lose to the Wildcats three weeks later on the road.
This year, the 19th-ranked Illini boasts one of the most potent offenses in the nation, ranking 10th in scoring, seventh in three-pointers made, and second in scoring margin. They allow just 61.4 points per game, ranking 23rd nationally.
Historically, Illinois has dominated this rivalry, winning eight of the last 10 matchups. But Northwestern has proven tough in Evanston, winning the last two meetings there. The Illini enter Friday’s game as favorites, backed by their impressive scoring and defensive efforts, but Northwestern’s home-court advantage could be a factor.
Northwestern made a rare NCAA Tournament appearance and Illinois won the Big Ten Tournament and reached the Elite Eight.