Following a close win against Nebraska over the weekend, Maryland begins a two-game road trip with a matchup versus Illinois in Champaign on Thursday night. The Fighting Illini currently hold a record of 13-5 (5-3), and have lost two of their last three games to USC and Michigan State. Brad Underwood’s squad also has victories over Wisconsin, Missouri, and Oregon on their resume.
Illinois is a well-balanced team, with five players averaging double-digit scoring figures. Freshman guard Kasparas Jakucionis leads the way, averaging 16 points per game and serving as the team’s best three-point shooter. Sophomore center Tomislav Ivisic is a talented big man, averaging 13 points and 9 rebounds per game while also being a threat from beyond the arc.
Maryland is 15-8 all-time against Illinois and have won three of the last four meetings, including the most recent in Champaign last season.
KenPom Rankings
- Maryland: #24 (#35 ORtg, #23 DRtg; #71 AdjT)
- Illinois: #9 (#18 ORtg, #9 DRtg; #10 AdjT)