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UConn Huskies vs Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Preview
No. 5 UConn meets No. 13 Illinois on Friday at Madison Square Garden in a matchup defined by depth and size. These programs last met in the 2023 Elite Eight, where UConn delivered a 30–0 run that still gets referenced whenever these rosters collide. Illinois believes its rebuilt lineup can close that gap, and this is the first major measuring stick of the season. For updated odds heading into tipoff, check the NCAA basketball odds page.
UConn enters 5-1 with its only loss coming in a tight game against BYU. Dan Hurley expects his team to look more complete as reinforcements return. Five-star freshman Braylon Mullins is close to debuting, and starting center Tarris Reed Jr. could also return from an ankle injury. Silas DeMary Jr. recorded a triple-double against Bryant—UConn’s first since Tristen Newton—and Hurley sees this group’s depth as the foundation for another title-caliber push.
Illinois arrives 6-1 and massive in the frontcourt. The Illini rank third nationally in rebound margin and rotate twin 7-footers Tomislav and Zvonimir Ivisic. Brad Underwood wasn’t pleased with his team’s energy against UT Rio Grande Valley despite the win, pushing effort and defensive urgency heading into Friday. He built this roster for games like this, and the Illini will need all of that size to match UConn’s physicality.
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Line Movement and Odds
With both teams elite on the glass and capable of long scoring runs, oddsmakers opened tight lines and a total that sits just above the national average. Support has leaned slightly toward UConn because of depth and potential lineup reinforcements. For comparisons across Friday’s slate, visit the college basketball previews page.
Matchup Breakdown
UConn plays with pace, pressure and depth. DeMary, Saunders and Wright provide perimeter handling and rebounding, and the Huskies expect Mullins and Reed to help stabilize rotations. Hurley’s emphasis is on defending without fouling and forcing opponents to finish over length.
Illinois can match UConn’s size at every position. The Ivisic twins give Underwood real rim presence, and the rotation’s overall rebounding advantage has been noticeable every night. The question becomes consistency in perimeter defense and whether Illinois can avoid long scoring droughts. Underwood challenged his team’s effort after Monday’s win, and Friday’s stage at Madison Square Garden leaves no margin for flat starts.
For model-based comparisons and betting angles, see the free NCAAB picks section.
Injuries and Conditions
UConn
- Braylon Mullins (ankle) – Expected to be available
- Tarris Reed Jr. (ankle) – Possible return
Full team info: UConn page
Illinois
No new updates beyond normal rotation management.
Full team info: Illinois page
Neutral-site indoor matchup, no weather impact.
Best Bets and Prediction
Both teams rebound at a high level and can generate buckets from multiple positions. UConn’s depth and returning health give them the edge late, but Illinois’ size keeps the game competitive throughout.
Projected Score: UConn 80, Illinois 74
Best Bet: UConn ML or −4 if available
Secondary Lean: Under, tied to physical half-court play from both sides
For bankroll strategy and structured angles, use the Bettors Handbook.
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