Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Iowa State Cyclones 3/28/24 – As the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament unfolds, a highly anticipated clash is set between the Illinois Fighting Illini (28-8) and the Iowa State Cyclones (29-7). Both teams have had stellar seasons, showcasing their prowess and securing their spots in this critical juncture of the tournament. With the game scheduled for Thursday, March 28, 2024, at the iconic TD Garden, this matchup is not only a treat for basketball aficionados but also a significant event for bettors scouting the top online betting sites for value picks.
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Iowa State Cyclones 3/28/24
| When: | Thursday, March 28, 2024 at 10:09 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | TD Garden |
| TV: | TBS |
| Stream: | SofaScore |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fighting Illini | +2.5 (-112) | 146.5 over (-105) | +114 |  |
| Cyclones | -2.5 (-107) | 146.5 under (-112) | -137 | |
| ||||
The story continues in Boston.
We’ll face [2] Iowa State at 9:09 pm CT on TBS/TruTV.#Illini | #HTTO | #EveryDayGuys pic.twitter.com/o8wFtZPmSx
— Illinois Men's Basketball (@IlliniMBB) March 26, 2024
The betting odds present a tight contest between the Illinois Fighting Illini and the Iowa State Cyclones. With Iowa State slightly favored by the odds-makers, the narrow spread reflects the expected competitiveness of this game. The total points line set at 146.5 indicates anticipation of a high-scoring affair, aligning with the offensive capabilities of both teams. Bettors and fans alike should consider these odds carefully, as they suggest a game that could very well go down to the wire.
Terrence Shannon Jr. (Guard) vs. Keshon Gilbert (Guard)
Terrence Shannon Jr., guard of the Illinois Fighting Illini, has demonstrated nothing but excellence this season. In an average of 30 games so far, Shannon managed to score 23.3 points every game. Such performance has been a part of Illinois’ winning strategy. Though a flexible scorer, his field goal shooting was very steady with an impressive 48.1% and 36.1% from beyond the arc, opening opportunities any time he steps on the court. Shannon can outshine these qualities, namely game performance under pressure and team leadership against world-class defenses.
While on the other hand is Keshon Gilbert whose performance for the Iowa State Cyclones has been one of the most crucial aspects of their game. During all 36 games, Gilbert has a stat line of 13.7 PPG, 4.4 RPG, and 4.3 APG. His defensive qualities, including 1.9 steals for each game, and the way he contributes on both ends of the court admit him to be a mobile hazard. Though not as an external scorer, yet the capacity of Gilbert to impact the game in and out will be decisive.
When Shannon and Gilbert there will be a bustle of different styles and roles as they play in front of the crowd. In the duel between Shannon’s scoring ability and Gilbert’s game with a mix of all-around and defensive tenacity, it paves the way for an interesting match up. The point where these two crucial parts meet could, to some extent, lead to tipping the balance of power by either of the teams.
Illinois’ Offensive Juggernaut
Illinois Fighting Illini’s offensive statistics are extremely impressive, scoring 84.6 points per game and converting 47percent of their shot attempts. Being overshadowed by their rebounding excellence being 41 rebounds per game, gives the extra possession and scoring chances. Although their offensive might isn’t built on this yet, they still possess some 3-point shooting ability (35.3%) which certainly can be used to break down plenty of tough defenses.
Cyclones’ Balanced Assault
Trends
Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Trends
Illinois are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
Fighting Illini are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Illinois are 9-3 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Illinois’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 13 of Illinois’ 21 last games at home
Iowa State Cyclones Betting Trends
Iowa State are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
Cyclones are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Iowa State are 8-5 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Iowa State’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 11 of Iowa State’ 21 last games at home
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Iowa State Cyclones Betting Picks
Looking ahead at the close spread the game seems ready for a closely fought battle. The offensive prowess of Illinois along with the balanced offensive and defensive skills of Iowa State could make the match thrilling. For such daily March Madness picks, the single edge might advantage Iowa State inch by inch, thanks to their great defensive abilities that can frustrate Illinois to slow down their great offense. Nevertheless, the bouncing back nature of the Illini and their scoring abilities, particularly the skills of Terrance Shannon Jr., is not to be undermined.
Score Prediction: Iowa State 78, Illinois 75
