The VCU Rams will take on the Illinois Fighting Illini in the second round of the NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Tournament. This game is part of the South Region. It will be held at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, SC, on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET.
VCU Rams had a strong regular season with an overall record of 27-7. In their conference, the Atlantic 10, they went 18-3. Last year, they played in the East Region’s first round but lost to BYU with a score of 80-71.
Illinois Fighting Illini finished their regular season with a 24-8 record. In the Big Ten Conference, they had a 15-6 record. In the 2025 postseason, they won against Xavier in the first round but lost to Kentucky in the second round.
Illinois Preview
The Illinois Fighting Illini are ranked #13 in the AP poll. They play in the Big Ten Conference. In the 2026 regular season, they had a record of 24-8 overall and 15-6 in the conference.
In the 2025 postseason, Illinois won their first-round game against Xavier with a score of 86-73. They lost in the second round to Kentucky, 75-84. Their performance in the tournament showed their ability to compete at a high level.
Offensively, Illinois scored an average of 84.4 points per game, ranking 25th. They made 10.9 three-pointers per game, which placed them 24th. Their free throw percentage was 78.9, ranking 30th.
In terms of player contributions, Keaton Wagler led the team with 17.9 points per game. David Mirkovic was a key player with 13.4 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. Kylan Boswell also contributed with 13.2 points per game.
VCU Preview
The VCU Rams play in the Atlantic 10 Conference. In the 2025 postseason, they reached the East Region’s first round. They lost to BYU with a score of 80-71. This game ended their postseason run.
During the 2026 regular season, the Rams had a strong record of 27-7. In conference play, they went 18-3. Their performance showed they were a competitive team in their conference.
Offensively, the Rams scored 81.6 points per game in the regular season. They attempted 58.1 field goals per game and made 9.3 three-pointers on average. Their free throw percentage was 73.9, and they made 18.8 free throws per game.
On defense, the Rams averaged 7.4 steals and 4.4 blocks per game. They committed 17.3 fouls per game. Their defensive stats helped them maintain a strong presence on the court.
Statistical Breakdown for Illinois vs VCU
The game between Illinois and VCU will likely be influenced by their offensive strengths. Illinois scores 84.4 points per game, while VCU scores 81.6. Illinois has a higher three-point shooting average, making 10.9 per game compared to VCU’s 9.3. VCU, however, has a strong free throw presence, making 18.8 free throws per game. Both teams have solid defensive stats, but Illinois has a slight edge in rebounds per game.
- Illinois Points Per Game: 84.4 (25th)
- VCU Points Per Game: 81.6 (68th)
- Illinois 3PT Made Per Game: 10.9 (24th)
- VCU 3PT Made Per Game: 9.3 (94th)
- VCU Free Throws Made Per Game: 18.8 (22nd)
- Illinois Rebounds Per Game: 40.7 (22nd)
- VCU Rebounds Per Game: 36.7 (136th)
Betting Insights
As the VCU Rams prepare to play against the Illinois Fighting Illini, bettors have several trends to consider. The Rams have shown strong performances straight up, especially as favorites. Meanwhile, the Illini have been solid against the spread recently. Here are the top betting trends to keep in mind for this game:
- VCU is 27-4 straight up as a favorite.
- VCU is 20-11 against the spread as a favorite.
- Illinois is 4-1 against the spread in their last 5 games.
- Illinois has hit the over in 7 of their last 10 games.
- VCU has hit the over in 19 of their games this season.
Free Betting Prediction for Illinois vs VCU
Illinois comes into this game as the favorite, with a strong offensive lineup. Their ability to score and make three-pointers gives them an edge. Keaton Wagler and David Mirkovic are key players who can make a difference. Illinois’ recent form against the spread also shows they are performing well.
VCU is not to be underestimated, though. They have a solid record and can score effectively. Their defense, with steals and blocks, can disrupt Illinois’ rhythm. However, Illinois’ higher rebound average might limit VCU’s second-chance opportunities.
The game is likely to be high-scoring, given both teams’ offensive strengths. The over on 151.5 points is a possibility. However, Illinois’ overall strength and home advantage might be too much for VCU to overcome.
- Our Free Prediction: Illinois -10.5
