The Illinois Fighting Illini, ranked third in the nation, will play against the sixteenth-ranked Texas Tech Red Raiders. This early-season non-conference game will take place at the United Supermarkets Arena in Lubbock, Texas. Both teams enter the game with a 2-0 record in the 2027 regular season.
Illinois has started their season with commanding wins over Penn and Fairleigh Dickinson. Key players like Andrej Stojakovic and Ethan Brown have shown strong performances. The Illini look to continue their scoring success against Texas Tech.
Texas Tech has also opened their season with victories, defeating Bethune-Cookman and Jackson State. Players such as Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn and Cruz Davis have led the way for the Red Raiders. The team aims to maintain their unbeaten streak against a top-ranked opponent.
Texas Tech vs Illinois At a Glance
- Game Date & Time: Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at 8:00 PM ET
- Venue: United Supermarkets Arena, Lubbock TX
- TV Channel: Peac
- Illinois Record: 2-0 in the 2027 Regular Season
- Texas Tech Record: 2-0 in the 2027 Regular Season
- Game Odds: Illinois favored by -1.5
Texas Tech Red Raiders Aim for Consistency in Upcoming Game
Offensive Performance
The Texas Tech Red Raiders score 76.0 points per game, ranking them 234th. Their field goal percentage stands at 43.8, placing them 233rd. Despite this, they achieve a solid 63.5% on two-point attempts, which is 40th best.
Three-point shooting has been a challenge, with the team hitting only 26.7% of their attempts, ranking 361st. They average 8.0 made three-pointers per game. The team is effective in drawing fouls, getting to the free-throw line 31.0 times per game, 41st most in the league.
Defensive Outlook
Defensively, the Red Raiders average 10.5 steals per game, ranking them 421st. They record 4.0 blocks per game, standing at 304th. The team keeps turnovers low, averaging 10.5 per game, which is 93rd.
Fouling is an area of concern, as they commit 21.0 fouls per game, placing them 378th. This leads to additional free throw opportunities for opponents. Improving discipline on defense could be crucial for their success.
Key Players
Cruz Davis is a standout guard, averaging 15.0 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn matches him in scoring with 15.0 points and contributes 3.0 assists per game. Damarion Dennis adds 13.5 points per game, showcasing efficiency with a 62.5% field goal percentage.
Josiah Moseley leads in rebounding with 8.5 per game while scoring 12.5 points. Donovan Atwell and DaKari Spear provide additional support with scoring and rebounding. Their contributions are vital to the team’s success.
Injury Concerns
JT Toppin is out with a knee injury, having torn his ACL. He does not have a timetable for return. Jamichael Stillwell is questionable due to eligibility issues, which could affect the team’s depth.
Team Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 2-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 5: 2-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 10: 2-0 (100.0%)
- SU All Games: 2-0 (100.0%)
- SU as Favorite: 2-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 3: 0-2 (0.0%)
- ATS Last 5: 0-2 (0.0%)
- ATS Last 10: 0-2 (0.0%)
- ATS All Games: 0-2 (0.0%)
- ATS as Favorite: 0-2 (0.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 0-2 (0.0%)
- O/U Last 5: 0-2 (0.0%)
- O/U Last 10: 0-2 (0.0%)
- O/U All Games: 0-2 (0.0%)
Illinois and Their High-Flying Offense: A Preview
Team Overview
The Illinois Fighting Illini basketball team has shown a strong offensive presence. Their scoring average of 116 points per game ranks them second nationally. High field goal attempts and a solid shooting percentage contribute to their offensive success.
Illinois also excels in three-point shooting, ranking seventh in three-pointers made per game. The team's ability to shoot both inside and beyond the arc keeps defenses on their toes. Despite their scoring ability, free throw shooting remains an area for improvement.
Key Players
Andrej Stojakovic leads Illinois in scoring, averaging 22.5 points per game. His shooting efficiency, with a field goal percentage of 64.3%, makes him a constant threat on the court. Stojakovic's contributions in rebounds and assists also help the team.
Quentin Coleman has been pivotal, contributing 16 points per game. He adds value with his rebounding and assists, showcasing a well-rounded game. His presence on both ends of the floor strengthens Illinois.
Defensive Stats
Defensively, Illinois averages 5.5 steals per game. While their steal numbers rank them 114th, they have room for improvement. The team records 5.5 blocks per game, showing a mixed defensive performance.
Turnovers are another aspect Illinois needs to manage better, with an average of 13 per game. Limiting mistakes will be key to maintaining their current success. Fouls per game are moderate, indicating discipline in defense.
Illinois Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 2-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 5: 2-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 10: 2-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 3: 2-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 5: 2-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 10: 2-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 2-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 5: 2-0 (100.0%)
Illinois has been successful in their recent games, both straight up and against the spread. Their ability to cover the spread in each game played so far shows consistency. Bettors should take note of their strong start to the season.
Texas Tech vs Illinois Prediction: Illinois -1.5
Illinois enters this game ranked third with strong offensive numbers. They average 116 points per game and have a high field goal percentage. This suggests they can cover the -1.5 spread against Texas Tech.
Texas Tech, ranked 16th, scores 76 points per game. Their offensive stats are not as impressive as Illinois. This could be a challenge against Illinois' high-scoring ability.
Illinois has a solid record against the spread this season. They are 2-0 ATS, while Texas Tech is 0-2 ATS. This trend supports picking Illinois to cover.
In their last meeting, Illinois won by four points. With their current form and offensive strength, expect Illinois to win 85-80.
- Texas Tech vs Illinois Prediction: Illinois -1.5
- Texas Tech vs Illinois Score: Illinois 85 - Texas Tech 80
Disclaimer: Knup Predictions are for entertainment and informational purposes only. Must be 21+ where applicable. Please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Get more picks and sports insights in your inbox
Subscribe to the Knup newsletter for nightly CBB previews, sports business notes, and ecosystem updates.