Wisconsin (12-9, 4-4)
All time: 110-82 (last #5 Wisconsin 68 – Illinois 49, Feb. 15, 2015 in Madison)
Tip-off: 6:30 pm
TV: Big Ten Network
As discussed after the Ohio State loss, inconsistency is basically what can be expected from Illinois right now. The team is struggling to maintain offensive rhythm, so what exactly the play on the floor will be remains to be seen.
As for Wisconsin, they’re hot right now. They’ve won their last three, including beating #4 Michigan State and #19 Indiana. Their schedule is the 6th toughest in the nation and they’ve fared fairly well considering the turnover in players and coaches they’ve experienced.
Wisconsin’s greatest threat is forward Nigel Hayes. The junior can do a little bit of everything and has a very adaptable game. He’s averaging 17 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists. Supporting him are Bronson Koenig, who is big threat from the perimeter and averages 13.5 per game, and Ethan Happ, a freshman forward who is coming into his own with 12.6 points per game.
Predicted lineups
Wisconsin: Zak Showalter, guard; Bronson Koenig, guard; Nigel Hayes, forward; Ethan Happ, forward; Vitto Brown, forward
Illinois: Jaylon Tate, guard; Jalen Coleman-Lands, guard; Kendrick Nunn, guard; Malcolm Hill, guard; Michael Finke, forward
Gut feeling
Not a blowout, but not a win for Illinois either. I see the Illini being a little less streaky on offense, but unable to top the Badgers. Wisconsin is clicking right now, so it could be tough for Illinois to overcome their momentum.