Wisconsin Badgers (8-2) vs. Illinois Fighting Illini (6-2)
Wisconsin Badgers vs. Illinois Fighting Illini December 10 2024 – An enticing encounter between the Wisconsin Badgers and the Illinois Fighting Illini is on the agenda for Tuesday at the NCAA Men’s Basketball. The Badgers have an impressive season, being 8-2 as the Fighting Illini go up against them at 6-2 this far. Not only this but the game offers both teams a chance to move up in the ranking amongst only a few top Big Ten teams as the progression continues.
Wisconsin Badgers vs. Illinois Fighting Illini December 10 2024 Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at 9:00 PM ET |
| Where: | State Farm Center |
| TV: | PEAC |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Wisconsin Badgers vs. Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Wisconsin | +200 | +6 (-110) | 154.5 over (-115) |
| Illinois | -250 | -6 (-110) | 154.5 under (-105) |
As it stands, betting lines regard the Illinois Fighting Illini as firm favorites with a -250 moneyline and 6 points generous in the spread, indicating that the bettors have faith in the team’s ability to dominate the match at home ground. Alternatively, bettors have set the total score at 154.5, which favors a high-scoring game as the over continues to have -115 odds.
John Tonje (Guard) vs. Tomislav Ivisic (Center)
John Tonje, the top-performing guard for Wisconsin this year, has gained prominence this year averaging 21.5 points for his team. His consistent scoring both from the field and from the charity stripe, in addition to his excellent rebounding and playmaking, enables him to become a very difficult player to defend against. On the contrary, his 2.6 turnovers per game demonstrate a weakness that Illinois could use well, particularly in more pressure-cooked situations.
Conversely, Illinois’ center, Tomislav Ivisic, is a force in the post after averaging 16.1 points and 9.3 rebounds per game. His field goal percentage of 55.2% makes him a highly efficient scorer, especially close to the basket. Ivisic is also a strong rebounder, averaging nearly one block per game which will be important in decreasing Tonje’s chances of cutting through the defense and getting to the basket.
The confrontation between Tonje and Ivisic will be decisive. Ivisic’s ability to score in the low post and grab rebounds will come against Tonje’s ability to stretch the floor and score from distance and this could also determine the direction of this contest. Both players, given their profile, are capable of making winning plays for their respective teams which is why this clash remains one of the important areas of focus.
Analyzing Wisconsin’s Statistical Strengths and Weaknesses
Throwing deep into the season, Wisconsin Badgers men’s basketball has showcased a somewhat admirable offensive structure this year, resulting in the team averaging around 82 points per game while shooting 45.4% from the field. The shooting percentage is also given an extra boost courtesy of their free throw percentage which is also one the highest in the NCAA averaging at around 85.5%. Their 3-point shooting, however, at 34.7% leaves a lot to be desired as Illinois’ defensive setups look to be an obstruction.
Illinois Fighting Illini’s Statistical Game Plan
In spite of their recent loss to Northwestern, Illinois possesses a strong scoring unit which manages to score an average of 86.3 points per game. With a rebounding average of 47.4, their stats on the boards always allow them to have additional chances to score and control the pace of the game. Their free throw shooting leaves a lot to be desired at 69.8%, however, their ability to draw fouls remains a strength which can test Wisconsin’s defense when they look to bounce back from their last loss.
Wisconsin Badgers Betting Trends
Wisconsin are 2-4 ATS in their last 6 games.
The total has gone OVER in 16 of Wisconsin’s last 20 games.
Wisconsin are 8-2 SU in their last 10 games.
Wisconsin are 0-9 ATS in their last 9 games against Illinois.
Wisconsin are 0-8 SU in their last 8 games against Illinois.
Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Trends
Illinois are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Illinois’ last 7 games.
Illinois are 13-3 SU in their last 16 games.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Illinois’ last 6 games against Wisconsin.
Illinois are 5-0 SU in their last 5 games at home.
Wisconsin Badgers vs. Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Previews
When analyzing the historical data, it appears that Illinois has the edge, particularly given its head-to-head record over Wisconsin in its previous fixtures. But looking at the offensive statistics of both teams and the history of matches between them, where scoring seems to be a regular feature, the over on 154.5 seems biblical. For those betting on the game’s outcome, backing Illinois to cover the spread seems sensible. Still, the more attractive and sensible option seems like the over on the total points, especially since both teams are quite attack-minded.
Score Prediction: Illinois 82, Wisconsin 73.
