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Illinois (6-1) vs UConn (5-1)
- When: Nov 28 2025, 12:30 PM
- Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY, USA
- Where to watch: FOX
(13) Illinois vs (5) UConn Preview & Prediction
Spread: UConn -3.5
Moneyline: UConn (-175)
Total: 152.0
UConn Huskies Betting Breakdown
UConn enters this Madison Square Garden matchup looking more like a team still finding its identity than the dominant squads that lifted trophies in recent years, but the potential is clearly there. Dan Hurley continues to lean on depth as his program’s defining trait, and the roster appears built to spread scoring evenly once everyone is healthy. With Braylon Mullins inching closer to returning and Tarris Reed Jr. expected to be available, UConn should have greater lineup flexibility and more size at the rim.
The Huskies flashed their old energy in their most recent outing when Silas DeMary Jr. posted a rare triple double, a reminder of how dangerous UConn can be when its guards rebound and initiate offense. Combining that with renewed interior strength gives them the blueprint to lean on Illinois physically. With the spread favoring UConn by 2.5, bookmakers clearly expect the Huskies to control stretches of this game if they win the battle on the glass.
Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Breakdown
Illinois has spent the past two seasons reshaping its roster with the specific goal of closing the gap between itself and top tier national contenders. This matchup provides a chance to measure that progress. The Illini come in at 6-1 with a frontline big enough to challenge UConn on the boards, and their elite rebound margin shows how well they punish opponents who fail to match their physicality. Both Ivisic brothers have given Brad Underwood meaningful minutes since returning, offering size that few teams can replicate.
Still, the Illini have been inconsistent at times. Their win over UT Rio Grande Valley left Underwood frustrated with effort and defensive commitment, something that cannot happen against a team as fundamentally sound as UConn. Illinois has the talent and size to cover the 2.5 point spread or win outright, but only if they bring sustained focus for the full 40 minutes. They cannot afford slow rotations or long droughts on offense.
Prediction & Betting Angle
Both teams have the size to make this one a grinding, physical matchup, and the total of 152 reflects expectations of strong offensive efficiency rather than pace. UConn’s depth and improved health give it a slight edge, especially if it controls second chance opportunities. Illinois can keep it tight, but Hurley’s group has the higher floor and closes stronger.
Final Score: UConn 80, Illinois 75
Lean: UConn -3.5
Total: Over 152.0
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
