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Are you ready for an electrifying showdown in the Big Ten? On January 30, 2025, the #18 Illinois Fighting Illini will face off against the Nebraska Cornhuskers in Lincoln. With a solid season under their belts, the Illini (14-6, 6-4 B1G) are gearing up for this important road test against Nebraska (12-8, 2-7 B1G). The game is set to tip off at 7:30 p.m. CT and promises to be a thrilling encounter.
### Team Performance and Recent Form
Coming off a strong performance, Illinois recently secured an impressive 83-74 victory over Northwestern. This win showcased the depth of talent within the Illini squad, as they saw five different players reaching double figures. This matchup marks the beginning of a tough stretch for Illinois, as they will be playing three out of their next four games on the road.
Historically, Illinois has dominated the matchup against Nebraska, leading the all-time record 23-8. They have a current winning streak of nine games against the Cornhuskers, with the last encounter resulting in a convincing win in the Big Ten Tournament semifinals.
### Probable Starters
Head coach Brad Underwood is expected to field a strong starting lineup featuring standout freshman talent. Among the highlights:
- G 32 - Jakucionis (6'6", 205 lbs, Fr.): Averaging 15.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.4 assists, he has tied the Illini freshman record with eight games scoring over twenty points.
- G 4 - Coleman (6'2", 205 lbs, Jr.): Contributing 12.3 points and 5.5 rebounds, Coleman has stepped up his game significantly recently.
- C 13 - Ivisic (7'1", 255 lbs, So.): Leading the rebounding effort with 8.5 boards per game, he has recorded seven double-doubles this season.
This talented roster includes many first-year players who have made significant contributions, with newcomers accounting for 92% of the Illini's total scoring this season. This influx of talent has invigorated the team, leading them to a standout scoring average of 85.8 points per game—the highest since the legendary "Flyin' Illini" team in 1988-89.
### Key Statistics
As we head toward this critical match, several statistics stand out for Illinois:
- Illinois ranks first nationally in rebounds per game at 45.0.
- They also hold a scoring margin of +16.3 points, which is second in the Big Ten.
- The team leads the nation in 3-point attempts, showcasing their aggressive style of play.
### The Road Ahead
The Illini aim to maintain their momentum as they prepare for a challenging series of games. A victory against Nebraska would not only bolster their chances in the Big Ten standings but also solidify their position in the national rankings as they strive for a postseason berth.
Whether you’re a diehard Illini fan or a college basketball enthusiast, this matchup is one you won’t want to miss. Tune in to the game at 7:30 p.m. CT and watch as the Fighting Illini look to extend their winning streak and showcase their prowess on the road!
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