Ill.-Chicago Flames vs
Northwestern WildcatsPredictions & Preview

Northwestern Wildcats Favored to Win Intra-City Battle Against UIC Flames in College Basketball Matchup

The upcoming college basketball matchup between the UIC Flames and the Northwestern Wildcats is set to take place on Tuesday at 7:00 ET at Welsh-Ryan Arena in Evanston, IL. The UIC Flames are currently 2-0, while the Northwestern Wildcats are 1-1. This intra-city showdown has generated a lot of interest, with Northwestern being the betting favorite at -15. In addition to discussing each team's early-season performance and expectations for the 2024-25 season, I will also provide my picks and predictions for the UIC vs. Northwestern game.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Flames +800 | Wildcats -1400
• Spread: Flames +15 (-110) | Wildcats -15 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 142 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Northwestern will win straight-up is 93%.

Ill.-Chicago vs Northwestern Stats

Ill.-Chicago Flames

The Rob Ehsan Era has begun at the University of Illinois - Chicago, with the former UAB coach taking the reins of the UIC Flames. Coach Ehsan brings a successful track record, having led UAB to a 76-57 record during his time there. The Flames are off to a strong start this season, with wins over St. Francis IL and a notable victory over Yale. Despite being projected to finish last in the Missouri Valley Conference, UIC has shown promise on the court. Statistically, the team has strengths in three-point shooting and defensive rebounding, while needing improvement in free throw percentage and turnover margin. As the season progresses, Coach Ehsan will look to build upon these early successes and continue to develop a competitive program at UIC.

Northwestern Wildcats Analysis

Northwestern Wildcats men's basketball program, under the leadership of Coach Chris Collins, is gearing up for what they hope will be a successful season. Despite low expectations, the team has shown promise in recent years, making appearances in the NCAA Tournament. Currently, the Wildcats are ranked 15th in power rankings and have shown strengths in various offensive and defensive categories. However, they have room for improvement, particularly on defense where they allow a higher percentage of field goals and free throws. In their most recent game against Dayton, the Wildcats struggled in several statistical categories, ultimately leading to a loss. Northwestern will look to bounce back and improve as the season progresses.

Northwestern Wildcats Poised for Strong Rebound Performance against Intra-City Rival

Although Northwestern's current record stands at 1-1, it is worth noting that a loss to a top-tier mid-major team like Dayton (71-66) is not uncommon. Anticipating a strong rebound performance at home, the Wildcats are positioned to not only maintain their lead but also cover the spread. With Nick Martinelli leading the charge as a dependable scorer with 58 points in two games (29.0 PPG), Northwestern's offense is in good hands. Last season, their offense ranked 35th in adjusted offensive efficiency, scoring 115.9 points per 100 possessions. This season, they are ranked 52nd in the same category (111.9) with the 21st-best defense (95.2). Expectations are high for the Wildcats to secure a comfortable victory over their intra-city rival on Tuesday evening.

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