Expert prediction
NCAA Sweet 16: Illinois vs Houston Preview, Odds, Predictions (March 26)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Fighting Illini shut down VCU in the Round of 32.
- The Cougars took down Texas A&M in the second round.
- This marks the seventh all-time matchup between the two programs.
The late hours of the March 26 slate will have high quality basketball when the Illinois Fighting Illini take on the Houston Cougars in the Sweet 16 of the 2026 NCAA Tournament. The latter stands out as the slight favorite, presenting a remarkable duel to see who gets to the Elite Eight.
How to Watch
- When: Thursday, March 26, 10:05 pm ET
- Where: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas
- How to Watch: truTV/TBS
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | -110 | +2.5 | O 140 |
| Houston | -110 | -2.5 | U 140 |
Game Preview
The Fighting Illini (26-8) cruised their way to the Sweet 16 after taking down Penn and VCU in the opening rounds. In the win over the Rams, Andrej Stojakovic led four Illini in double figures with 21 points off the bench, including 16 in the first half, while Keaton Wagler and Tomislav Ivisic each added 14 points, and Kylan Boswell chipped in 12. Ivisic posted a double-double with a game-high 11 rebounds.
The Cougars (29-6) dominated in the first two rounds of March Madness, blowing out Idaho and Texas A&M to get the last 16. They advanced to the Sweet 16 for the seventh consecutive season to extend the nation’s longest active streak. Emanuel Sharp scored 18 points, while Chris Cenac Jr. had 17 points and nine rebounds to lead the attack for Houston. Meanwhile, Milos Uzan added 15 points for the Cougars.
Illinois vs Houston Head-to-Head
The two programs have had six meetings in their history, and the result is 3-3 for both teams. The most recent matchup was in March 2022 when Houston won 68-53 in that year’s NCAA Tournament.
Illinois vs Houston Predictions
The winner of this matchup will take on the victors between Iowa and Nebraska in the Elite Eight. Despite their remarkable campaigns, only one of these two teams will advance while the other goes home. Houston has a lot to lose as they try to get back to the national championship game for the second straight year, while Illinois attempts to continue their deep run. The Cougars might have the better edge, especially if Emanuel Sharp and Chris Cenac Jr. deliver strong performances. Our betting pick here is for the Cougars to cover a 2.5-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick: Houston Cougars -2.5
NCAAB
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