Illinois Fighting Illini (28-8) vs. Iowa State Cyclones (29-7)
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Iowa State Cyclones March 28 2024 – In a clash of collegiate titans at the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Men’s Basketball tournament, the Illinois Fighting Illini take on the Iowa State Cyclones in a game that promises intense action and strategic playmaking. With Illinois standing at 28-8 and Iowa State not far behind at 29-7, this matchup is a must-watch for fans and bettors alike, keenly awaited by followers of Best Betting Sites Review for its potential impact on the brackets.
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Iowa State Cyclones March 28 2024 Game Info
| When: | Thursday, March 28, 2024 at 10:09 PM ET |
| Where: | TD Garden |
| TV: | TBS |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Iowa State Cyclones Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Illinois | +114 | +2.5 (-112) | 146.5 over (-105) |
| Iowa State | -137 | -2.5 (-107) | 146.5 under (-112) |
The betting odds favor the Cyclones slightly, but the Illini’s underdog status with a +2.5 spread might tempt those betting on a close game. Given both teams’ recent performances, the slim spread suggests a game that could swing either way, making it a thrilling prospect for bettors.
Terrence Shannon Jr. (Guard) vs. Keshon Gilbert (Guard)
Terrence Shannon Jr. has no rival – he has been the lead scorer for the Illini, averaging 23.3 points per game in 30 games. The rematch is fast approaching, and I feel confident that my opponent will not be able to overwhelm me on the mat. Nevertheless, against a high-pressing Iowa State defense, especially from attackers like Gilbert who might set the pace of the game, his contribution in this regard is essential.
There is no one sidedness to the positive impact Keshon Gilbert has made to Iowa State. On average, he gets 13.7 points and 4.3 assists in 36 games, with his great playmaking and defensive dullness, that’s shown by his 1.9 steals per game, he becomes one of the toughest customers to Shannon Jr. However, his lower scoring average is seen to be only one side of his impact in the game because it is important to set up plays
While Shannon Jr. and Gilbert face each other in the middle of the court, Shannon Jr. and his ability to score will get challenged by the various defenses the Cyclones intend to use. Both a team member Shannon with the capacity to upset the balance, yet an opponent Gilbert with defensive pedigree has an intimidating task of marking her
Analyzing Illinois’ Statistical Superiority
The Illini offensive numbers are intimidating as they are averaging at 84.6 points per game with a 47.6% field goal percentage. Their power isn’t only shown through scoring but also by their superiority in rebounding which is also a whooping 41 per game. This squad is good at both attack and defense, proving they will take advantage of any mistakes made while playing against Iowa State. This likely means they will exploit any openings in the defense.
Cyclones’ Balanced Approach
Iowa State, although not as offensively effective as Illinois, possesses a solid record that is evidenced in their 75.5 points per game, and 46.5% field goal percentage. Their defensive stats, in particular, the 10.3 steals per game show a team that could even mess up the well-organized offensive attacks. This balanced tactic might be what is needed for a tiebreaker match.
Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Trends
Illinois are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
Fighting Illini are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Illinois are 9-3 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Illinois’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 13 of Illinois’ 21 last games at home
Iowa State Cyclones Betting Trends
Iowa State are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
Cyclones are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Iowa State are 8-5 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Iowa State’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 11 of Iowa State’ 21 last games at home
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Iowa State Cyclones Betting Picks
In light of the abilities of the both teams and the recent outcomes of the games, this match will be full of excitement and it might turn in either team’s favour. Illinois’s offense arsenal, dominated by Shannon Jr., against Iowa State’s balanced scoring team and defensive strength, shows a match that could be decided on the last second basket. The statistical prescient of the oddsmakers that helps Iowa State get a slight edge of the two teams shows how important their defensive capabilities are, but Illinois’ scoring and rebounding can work against the odds.
Since both teams are especially competitive in nature, bettors on the lookout for free March Madness picks and odds need to take into account the possibility of a high-scoring game whose total goes over. Besides that, Terrence Shannon Jr. for Illinois and Keshon Gilbert for Iowa State could puzzle stacked on the scoring, assists, and steals, which work as very attractive prop betting opportunities.
Score Prediction: Illinois 76, Iowa State 74.
