13th-Ranked Illini Face Northwestern Wednesday
No. 13 Illinois will face off against Northwestern on Wednesday in a crucial Big Ten matchup. This game marks the Fighting Illini’s final contest in a challenging stretch of three out of four games on the road to begin the year. With a solid record of 5-2 away from home, Illinois is aiming to improve its road game performance, seeking a 4-0 start in Big Ten play for the first time since the 2004-05 season.
Current Performance and Rankings
Illinois enters this matchup on a season-best five-game winning streak. Recent victories, including a 75-69 win over No. 19 Iowa, have solidified their standing, with the team currently boasting an overall record of 13-3. The Illini rank No. 13 in the latest Associated Press and coaches polls, having peaking at No. 8 earlier this season.
Key Players to Watch
- Kylan Boswell: Senior leader and active career points leader (1,173). Averaging 14.7 points per game.
- Keaton Wagler: Freshman guard, leading scorer with 15.7 points per game.
- Andrej Stojakovic: Junior forward, also contributing significantly with 14.5 points per game.
- David Mirkovic: Freshman forward, recording impressive stats with 12.4 points and 8.6 rebounds per game.
Team Statistics
Illinois displays impressive statistics this season, highlighted by:
- Third in national offensive efficiency (126.8).
- Ranked No. 2 in NCAA for free throw percentage (79.8%).
- Average of 86.0 points per game, placing third in the Big Ten.
- First nationally with seven players averaging over 4.0 rebounds per game.
Historical Context and Rivalry
This meeting will mark the 191st encounter between Illinois and Northwestern. Illinois leads the all-time series with a record of 145-45, including a strong 65-31 advantage in road games against the Wildcats. The Illini recently secured a victory on January 26, 2025, with an 83-74 win over Northwestern. However, they are cautious, as Northwestern has won the last three matchups, including two in overtime.
Looking Ahead
A win against Northwestern could help Illinois extend its winning streak to six games and solidify its standing in the Big Ten. As the season progresses, maintaining their current form will be key for further success.
