"Illinois' +466 scoring differential (outscoring opponents by 14.6 points per game) is a result of scoring 84.4 points per game (20th in college basketball) while giving up 69.8 per contest (69th in college basketball). The Fighting Illini post 11.1 more points than the Quakers concede (73.3)."
"Illinois connects on 2.5 more threes per game than the opposition, 10.9 (ninth-most in college basketball) compared to its opponents' 8.4. Offensively, the Fighting Illini have played better in home games this season, averaging 86.1 points per game, compared to 83.6 per game in road games."
"Illinois lost its most recent game to Wisconsin, 91-88 in OT, on Friday. David Mirkovic was its high scorer with 19 points. On Sunday, in its most recent game, Pennsylvania defeated Yale 88-84 in OT. With 44 points, TJ Power was its high scorer."
Illinois and Pennsylvania compete in an NCAA Tournament opening-round game on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 9:25 p.m. ET on TNT. Illinois enters with a 24-8 record and a +466 scoring differential, averaging 84.4 points per game while allowing 69.8. The Fighting Illini score 11.1 more points than Pennsylvania allows and connect on 2.5 more three-pointers per game than opponents. Pennsylvania holds an 18-11 record, averaging 76.1 points per game while allowing 73.3. Illinois recently lost to Wisconsin 91-88 in overtime, while Pennsylvania defeated Yale 88-84 in overtime. The game takes place at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
#ncaa-tournament #illinois-fighting-illini #pennsylvania-quakers #college-basketball #first-round-matchup
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