The 2025 men’s NCAA Tournament is in full swing as the tournament turns to the second round to decide which programs will make it to the Sweet 16.
Second-round action Sunday features a matchup between Kentucky and Illinois in the Midwest Region.
The Kentucky Wildcats earned a No. 3 seed in the 2025 March Madness bracket and defeated the Troy Trojans in the first round. The Wildcats’ opponent, the sixth-seeded Illinois Fighting Illini, advanced after beating the Xavier Musketeers on Friday.
Kentucky ranks as the 17th-best team in the KenPom rankings behind the 11th-best offense and 54th-ranked defense. Meanwhile, Illinois ranks 16th overall with the 14th-ranked offense and 41st-ranked defense.
Here’s how our experts see Sunday’s Round of 32 clash playing out. Be sure to check out USA TODAY’s complete March Madness bracket predictions to see our team’s picks for every game. While you’re at it, don’t forget to read our tournament bold predictions and upset picks.
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Kentucky vs. Illinois picks and predictions
- Jordan Mendoza: Illinois
- Paul Myerberg: Kentucky
- Erick Smith: Illinois
- Eddie Timanus: Illinois
- Dan Wolken: Illinois
- Jeremy Cluff: Illinois 76, Kentucky 73
- Ryan Black: Kentucky 91, Illinois 89
It’s a mix of predictions here but most of our experts are backing the lower seed to win in this one. Illinois is better rated on KenPom and handled a higher seed very well in the first round. Both teams played in two of the tougher conferences this season (the SEC and the Big Ten) but our experts are favoring the Fighting Illini.
Kentucky vs. Illinois date, start time, where to watch
- Game Day: Sunday, March 23, 2025
- Game Time: 5:15 p.m. ET
- Location: Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee
- TV Channel: CBS
- Live Stream: Fubo – Watch Now!
Watch Kentucky vs. Illinois on Fubo
Kentucky vs. Illinois odds
Odds as of Sunday, March 23 via BetMGM.
- Spread: Illinois -2.5 (-105)
- Moneyline Favorite: Illinois -140
- Moneyline Underdog: Kentucky +115
- Total: 167.5
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