Big Ten Basketball power rankings: Indiana flies up, Michigan crashes down

5. Illinois Fighting Illini – 15-6 (6-4)

After getting dominated by Trayce Jackson-Davis and Indiana in the week prior, Illinois was able to bounce back with a pair of solid victories. The first was at home against Ohio State, with them having an early lead and holding on for a close victory, 69-60.

Once again, it was Terrence Shannon that lead the way, scoring a team-high 17 points. Three others were in double figures to join him, including Matthew Mayer and Jayden Epps, along with 11 points, nine rebounds, and six assists from Coleman Hawkins. Managing to win a game despite shooting 5/28 from deep was an impressive feat for them.

On the road at Wisconsin, it was the defeat that allowed the Fighting Illini to pull off the 61-51 victory. They held the Badgers to just 33% shooting from the field and held them to just 9/27 from deep. Shannon had just six points overall and turned it over six times but Mayer was able to take over the scoring load, going for 26 points. Epps, who has gotten consistent minutes ever since Skyy Clark left the team, had 13 points in the game.

Illinois has some good momentum and looks to keep it going, taking on Nebraska at home before going to play Iowa. They already have a 26-point victory over the Cornhuskers but have yet to play the Hawkeyes in what should be a good and high-scoring battle.