The first round of the NCAA Tournament features an exciting matchup between the No. 8 seed Illinois Fighting Illini (22-9) and the No. 9 seed Creighton Bluejays (24-7). Illinois has been heating up from beyond the arc, improving its 3-point shooting percentage significantly as the season has progressed.
Creighton, on the other hand, brings strong rebounding and offensive efficiency, with Morgan Maly leading the charge.
Creighton vs. Illinois Betting Preview
This game marks Illinois’ second NCAA Tournament appearance in three seasons under head coach Shauna Green, as the Illini look to capitalize on their offensive momentum. With both teams boasting similar scoring differentials, this contest is expected to be one of the most competitive matchups of the first round.
Let’s dive into the betting odds, winning probabilities and predictions for this highly anticipated showdown.
All Illinois vs. Creighton odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook and are correct as of Saturday, March 22, 2025.
- Spread
Illinois -1 - Moneyline
Illinois -117, Creighton -103 - Over/Under
136.5 points - Game Time
Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 6:15 p.m. CT - Location
Moody Center | Austin, Texas - How to Watch
ESPNews
Illinois enters this game with strong offensive numbers, averaging 71.2 points per game while holding opponents to 61.7. Their recent improvement in 3-point shooting—41.1% over the last stretch of games—could be a game-changer against a Creighton defense that allows opponents to shoot 42.6% from the field.
The Fighting Illini’s ability to sustain their perimeter success will be crucial in determining whether they can advance.
Creighton, meanwhile, thrives on balanced scoring and efficient shooting. The Bluejays average 72.1 points per game and allow 63.5, giving them a similar scoring margin to Illinois. They also shoot 44.9% from the field, which could pose problems for an Illinois defense that allows opponents to shoot 40.3%.
Creighton vs. Illinois Winning Probability
- Illinois: 51.3%
- Creighton: 48.7%
The latest CSN projection gives Illinois a slight edge in what Vegas also considers a virtual toss-up. With the Illini favored by just one point on the spread, the betting markets reflect just how evenly matched these teams are statistically and stylistically.
Prediction for Illinois vs. Creighton
This game is expected to come down to Illinois’ continued hot shooting from 3-point range versus Creighton’s well-balanced offense and rebounding ability. If Illinois can maintain its efficiency from deep, it has a solid chance to edge out a win.
On the other hand, if Creighton controls the boards and limits Illinois’ perimeter opportunities, the Bluejays could take this one.
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Expect a nail-biting finish in Austin as these two evenly matched teams battle for a spot in the next round. Illinois’ ability to capitalize on its recent offensive rhythm gives the Illini a slight edge in what should be a thrilling NCAA Tournament opener.
Prediction: Illinois 64, Creighton 62
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