Illinois Fighting Illini vs Northwestern Wilcats Picks and Predictions January 26th 2025

A Decade of Frustration in Champaign

The Northwestern Wildcats (12-7, 3-5 Big Ten) face a tall task as they head to Champaign, Illinois, on Sunday to battle the 17th-ranked Illinois Fighting Illini (13-6, 5-4). Northwestern hasn’t won at Illinois since January 2013, enduring an eight-game losing streak by an average margin of 12.4 points.

However, the Wildcats’ December victory over Illinois in Evanston — a 70-66 overtime thriller — offers a glimmer of hope. That game showcased Nick Martinelli, who delivered 27 points and dominated one-on-one matchups in the second half and overtime. Can Northwestern replicate that success on Illinois’ home court?

Illinois’ Recent Struggles

Illinois enters Sunday’s game in an unusual position, riding a two-game losing streak for the first time this season. After a 71-61 home loss to USC, the Illini suffered a humbling 91-70 defeat to Maryland on Thursday. Illinois coach Brad Underwood was candid after the game, calling the loss “an ass-kicking.”

The Illini’s struggles have been exacerbated by key absences. Freshman point guard Kasparas Jakucionis (16.2 points per game) missed the USC game, and starting center Tomislav Ivisic (13.0 points, 8.5 rebounds) has been sidelined with mononucleosis. Ivisic will miss Sunday’s game, and his absence significantly disrupts Illinois’ ability to execute high ball screens and pick-and-pop plays that are central to their offense.

“‘Tomi’ has been our highest-graded guy almost every game defensively,” Underwood said. “He makes everyone around him better because he covers for all that. I don’t know when we get him back.”

Northwestern Finds New Energy

After a midseason slump, the Wildcats have regained their form, thanks in large part to Ty Berry. The fifth-year senior has embraced a new role coming off the bench, rediscovering his shooting touch. Over Northwestern’s past three games, Berry has hit 12-of-26 from 3-point range, averaging 16.7 points and 5.7 rebounds.

Berry’s resurgence was on full display in Wednesday’s 84-83 overtime victory against Indiana, where he drilled a career-best 7-of-10 from beyond the arc. His energy and enthusiasm have been pivotal for the Wildcats, according to head coach Chris Collins.

“I love feeding off his energy and enthusiasm,” Collins said. “That smile he has when he’s playing with joy — it fills my bucket.”

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Nick Martinelli vs. Illinois’ Interior Defense

Martinelli torched Illinois for 27 points in their first meeting, exploiting one-on-one matchups. With Ivisic out, the Illini’s interior defense will be tested again.

2. Ty Berry’s Hot Hand

Berry’s recent shooting surge makes him a focal point for Northwestern’s offense. Illinois must find a way to limit his open looks, especially from deep.

3. Illinois’ Adjustments Without Ivisic

The absence of Ivisic forces Illinois to rely on alternative offensive sets. Freshman Amani Hansberry will need to step up in the paint against Northwestern’s physical defense.

What’s at Stake

For Northwestern, a win would not only snap a decade-long road losing streak in Champaign but also provide a significant boost to their NCAA Tournament hopes. For Illinois, a victory is critical to stop the bleeding and stay in the hunt for a top-four finish in the Big Ten.

Prediction

Despite Northwestern’s improved play and Illinois’ injury woes, the Illini’s home-court advantage and depth give them a slight edge. Expect a competitive game, but Illinois should find a way to rebound.

Final Score Prediction: Illinois 75, Northwestern 70

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Conclusion

The Wildcats head to Champaign with an opportunity to rewrite history and establish momentum in Big Ten play. Can Chris Collins lead Northwestern to its first road win at Illinois in over a decade, or will the Illini regroup and hold their ground at home? Stay tuned for what promises to be a high-stakes clash.