It is that time of year again, as the Braggin’ Rights game is on Monday and features the Illinois basketball program taking on Missouri.
This rivalry has gone in favor of the Illini as of late, but no matter how good or bad the teams are, it is always a fun watch.
Can Illinois rebound from a tough loss to Nebraska? Will the Tigers be able to notch a win against a quality opponent? We will find out on Monday night.
Here is the Illinois basketball vs Missouri how to watch, series history, and players to watch
- Illinois basketball vs Missouri – How to watch
The Braggin’ Rights game is held in St. Louis, Missouri, and it will take place on Monday, December 22, at 7:00 p.m. CT/8:00 p.m. ET. You can catch this great matchup on FS1. You can also view it on FuboTV by clicking on this link.
- Illinois basketball vs Missouri – Series history
Illinois has dominated this matchup throughout history. We have a 35-20 record overall, and this includes wins in the last two Braggin’ Rights games. The last victory came last season by a score of 80-77.
The first matchup between Illinois and Missouri took place in 1932. Illinois traveled to Columbia and beat the Tigers 36-24. I think we all remember that tough matchup. The current rendition of the rivalry has been playing in St. Louis since 1980.
- Illinois basketball vs Missouri – Players to watch
Missouri is going to be a different team. They have guard Mark Mitchell, who stands at 6-foot-9. He is averaging 18.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game this season.
They also have Jacob Crews, a 6-foot-8 guard. This kid averages 14.8 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. I will be curious to see what Illinois does with these matchups. I would imagine Keaton Wagler is going to give them a little trouble at 6-foot-7. They probably aren’t used to matchups that are nearly equal in height.
On the other end of the court, Illinois has Kylan Boswell, who should be able to take the game to these big guards. While they have the size, Boswell has speed and aggression he can use to his advantage. Take the ball at them, and force their hand and maybe get them in foul trouble.
I think the Ivisic brothers, Tomislav and Zvonimir, are going to be crucial for Illinois, too. Missouri has Shawn Phillips Jr. manning the paint, but Illinois has the Ivisic brothers, who can pull the big man out and stretch the floor. They are two players to watch in this contest.