Published Mar 21, 6:30am ET by
Demilade Adelekun - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Mar 21, 6:30am ET
Updated Mar 21, 6:30am ET
VCU just pulled off one of the day's biggest comebacks, and Illinois just posted one of the tournament's most dominant performances. Who will advance to the Sweet Sixteen?
|
|
|---|---|
| Illinois Fighting Illini | -575 |
| VCU Rams | +425 |
VCU is 28-7 overall and the 11th seed in the South Region. They are making their first second-round appearance since 2016, when they were also an 11-seed.
For More March Madness Betting Odds and Predictions, See the Full Hub
Terrence Hill Jr. just had one of the best first-round performances in recent memory. He went 34 points, 5 assists, 5 rebounds, and the game-winner in overtime. He is a walking microwave and can will VCU to wins.
Illinois is 25-8 overall and the 3rd seed in the South Region — one win from their second Sweet 16 in three years, and their most efficient team since Brad Underwood arrived in Champaign.
hey are led by Keaton Wagler, one of the best freshmen in the country. Wagler is an AP Second Team All-American, Big Ten Freshman of the Year, and averages 17.9 ppg on 41% from three. Illinois as a whole is elite offensively. They finished the year ranked as the most efficient offense in KenPom history.
VCU is a great story, and Hill is playing out of his mind, but Illinois is a different animal from North Carolina. Mirkovic and Wagler are two legitimate NBA prospects who will dominate the glass and score from everywhere. VCU's five-out scheme is creative, but Illinois is one of the best offenses in the country and won't go cold for long stretches the way UNC did. Illinois handles business and advances to the Sweet 16. Our pick is Illinois (-575).
|
Pick
Illinois (-575)
|
New Player Bonus
50% up to $1000
|
