Wisconsin vs. Illinois: Who will get their first Big Ten conference win?

Basketball fans won’t want to miss this matchup. On Dec. 10, 2024, the Illinois Fighting Illini will host the Wisconsin Badgers in a game that marks the first meeting since Illinois claimed the Big Ten championship on March 17, 2024, defeating Wisconsin.

Illinois enters the game with a 6-2 overall record but is 0-1 in conference play after a 71-60 loss to Northwestern on Dec. 6. Despite the setback, the Fighting Illini remain undefeated at home – where they are known for their high-scoring offense and fast-paced play.

They will look to keep that streak alive against a tough Wisconsin team.

Ranked No. 20, Wisconsin has an 8-2 overall record but also suffered a close loss to Michigan in their Big Ten opener on Dec. 3. The Badgers earned their spot in the rankings with impressive wins over top teams like Arizona and UCF.

However, they face a significant challenge in trying to slow down Illinois’ explosive offense.

Illinois is favored to win, with its high-powered offense averaging 83.4 points per game, second in the Big Ten behind Penn State. Their offense thrives on versatility, as several players contribute consistently to the scoreboard. At the center of their attack is Tomislav Ivisic, who leads the team with 16.1 points per game.

Ivisic is not only a scoring threat in the paint but also an elite rebounder, averaging 9.9 boards per game, which ranks second in the Big Ten. His ability to dominate both offensively and defensively has been crucial to Illinois’ success this season.

In addition to Ivisic, freshmen Will Riley and Kasparas Jakucionis have stepped up as key offensive contributors. Riley is averaging 15.0 points per game – while Jakucionis adds 14.4 points per contest.

Jakucionis also leads the team with 49 assists – showcasing Illinois’ unselfish ball movement. This balanced offensive attack keeps opposing defenses on their toes, as multiple players are capable of scoring at a high level.

Wisconsin’s offense is led by guard John Tonje, who leads the team with 21.5 points per game. The Badgers average 82.0 points per game but their scoring has been inconsistent throughout the season. To compete with Illinois, Wisconsin will need to limit turnovers and improve their defense, which has allowed 70.9 points per game.

Beyond Tonje, the Badgers look to Steven Crowl, a 7-foot center who provides both scoring and defensive presence, and Chucky Hepburn, a guard who contributes both playmaking and defense. Wisconsin needs these players to step up to challenge Illinois.

For Wisconsin to pull off an upset, they must maintain their offensive output while improving defensively. Illinois’ fast-paced, versatile offense will put Wisconsin’s defense to the test. The Badgers will need to find a way to disrupt Illinois’ ball movement and scoring rhythm.

If Wisconsin can limit turnovers and play stronger defense, they could challenge the Illini. However, with Illinois averaging 83.4 points per game and possessing one of the most powerful offenses in the Big Ten, this matchup will be a tough challenge for the Badgers.

Mckenna Kerr is a fourth-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email her at mgk5278@psu.edu.