Illinois Illini Set for NCAA Tournament in Milwaukee

The Illinois Fighting Illini basketball team has been placed as a No. 6 seed in the NCAA Tournament and will begin their campaign in Milwaukee, which is favorable for their fans due to its proximity to their home base. They will face the winner of a play-in game between Xavier and Texas, both regarded as potentially challenging but inconsistent teams. Despite a season marred by injuries to key players like Kasparas Jakucionis and Morez Johnson Jr., Illinois is entering the tournament healthy and optimistic about a deep run, with ESPN's Seth Greenberg considering them capable of reaching the Elite Eight. Coach Brad Underwood is pleased with the draw and location, which keeps them in 'Big Ten country.' Meanwhile, Michigan's men's basketball team, fresh off a Big Ten Tournament victory, earned a No. 5 seed and will face UC San Diego in their first NCAA Tournament match. Both Illinois and Michigan are preparing intensively, with Illinois especially focused on scouting their potential opponents quickly.