Alabama walks into the United Center with something to prove after getting pushed around by Purdue.
Alabama looks to bounce back with urgency
Nate Oats didn’t hide his frustration after that loss, calling the rebounding performance “embarrassing” and challenging his team to play with more urgency. He knows the Tide can score, but he also knows that winning big games means winning the dirty work.
The backcourt still gives Alabama a real shot in almost any matchup. Aden Holloway has been one of the quickest scorers in the country so far, and LaBaron Philon’s ability to create for everyone else makes them a dangerous duo. Add in Latrell Wrightsell Jr. And Houston Mallette, and Alabama has four guards who can do real damage if they get downhill. The issue isn’t offense. It’s whether the Tide can keep Illinois off the glass long enough to let their guards control the flow.
Alabama has also been at its best when it turns defense into quick points. If Oats’ group can force turnovers early, they’ll have a chance to flip the momentum and open things up in transition.
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Illinois leans on strength and size inside
Illinois arrives unbeaten and playing like a team that knows exactly who it is. Everything starts with the frontcourt, where freshman David Mirkovic has become a breakout star almost overnight. He’s physical, patient, and already a matchup nightmare, averaging 19.5 points and 12.5 rebounds while owning three double doubles. His 27 and 21 performance against Colgate turned heads across the Big Ten.
But the Illini are more than a one-man show. Kylan Boswell has stepped up as the steady hand in the backcourt, scoring efficiently and keeping the offense organized. Freshman Keaton Wagler has surprised everyone with his fearlessness, getting to the foul line more than almost any guard in the country. Illinois doesn’t beat itself, rebounds at an elite level, and plays with an edge that shows up every possession.
If Illinois wins the rebounding battle again, it puts Alabama in uncomfortable territory. If Alabama speeds things up and knocks down early shots, Illinois will be the team trying to adjust. That tension in styles is what gives this game its spark.
With two confident teams, one elite frontcourt, and one electric group of guards, this matchup has the feel of a real November measuring stick. The United Center crowd should get a show.
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