Xavier Musketeers vs Illinois Fighting Illini Pick – 3/21/2025

The NCAA Tournament's first round features an exciting matchup between the No. 11 seed Xavier Musketeers and the No. 6 seed Illinois Fighting Illini. The game is scheduled for Friday, March 21, 2025, at 9:45 p.m. Eastern Time at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. Both teams bring dynamic offenses and recent momentum into this contest, setting the stage for a compelling showdown.

Xavier Musketeers vs. Illinois Fighting Illini Game Preview

Xavier enters the tournament with a 22-11 record, including a recent victory over Texas in the First Four, where they secured an 86-80 win. The Musketeers have been on a strong run, winning nine of their last eleven games. Their offense averages 77.7 points per game, shooting 46.5% from the field and an impressive 38.5% from three-point range. Key contributors include forward Zach Freemantle, who leads the team with 17.2 points and 7 rebounds per game, and guard Ryan Conwell, averaging 16.7 points and shooting 41.7% from beyond the arc.

Illinois, with a 21-12 record, has had an up-and-down season but remains a formidable opponent. The Fighting Illini boast a high-powered offense, averaging 83.8 points per game, ranking them ninth nationally. They shoot 45.0% from the field but have struggled from three-point range, connecting on just 31.1% of their attempts. Freshman guard Kasparas Jakucionis leads the team with 15.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. Forward Tomislav Ivisic adds 12.5 points and 7.7 rebounds per contest.

Betting Insights

As of the latest reports, Illinois is favored by 3.5 points, with an over/under set at 159.5 points. Bettors should consider the following factors:

• Offensive Prowess: Both teams have potent offenses, with Illinois ranking ninth nationally in scoring and Xavier shooting efficiently from the field and three-point range.
• Recent Form: Xavier has won nine of its last eleven games, including a recent victory over Texas, while Illinois has experienced inconsistency but possesses significant talent.
• Injury Reports: Xavier will be without Lassina Traore and Trey Green. Illinois will be without Ty Rodgers, while Carey Booth is questionable.

Xavier Musketeers vs. Illinois Fighting Illini Prediction

This matchup features two high-octane offenses capable of putting up significant points. Xavier's recent momentum and efficient shooting, particularly from three-point range, provide them with a competitive edge. However, Illinois's ability to control the boards and their up-tempo style, led by Jakucionis, could exploit Xavier's defensive vulnerabilities.

Considering the current betting line favoring Illinois by 3.5 points and the over/under at 159.5, this game is expected to be closely contested. Given Xavier's recent form and shooting efficiency, they have a strong chance to cover the spread. Bettors might find value in taking Xavier with the points, anticipating a tightly contested game that could go either way.

In conclusion, while Illinois's talent and offensive capabilities are noteworthy, Xavier's recent momentum and shooting prowess make them a compelling pick to cover the spread in this first-round NCAA Tournament matchup.

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