ITHACA, N.Y. — Penn men’s basketball will face Illinois in the first round of March Madness, the NCAA announced Sunday evening.
Quakers Draw Tough Matchup in NCAA Tournament Debut Since 2000
The Penn Quakers, having secured the Ivy League’s automatic bid with a victory over Yale on Sunday afternoon, are seeded 14th in the South region. The first-round game is scheduled for March 19 at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, S.C., with a 9:25 p.m. Tipoff.
The bracket reveal took place during a live selection show on CBS. Penn’s coach, Fran McCaffery, expressed his excitement following the announcement, stating, “I’m just happy we’re in the field. We earned our way there.” He also noted his familiarity with Illinois coach Brad Underwood, describing him as a “really good friend.”
Illinois Presents a Significant Challenge
The Fighting Illini finished fourth in the Big Ten this season with a 24-8 overall record. Illinois boasts the highest adjusted offensive efficiency rating since KenPom began tracking the metric in 1997 and ranks seventh nationally in three-pointers made. Leading the Illini is freshman guard Keaton Wagler, named Big Ten Freshman of the Year after averaging 17.9 points per game.
Penn junior forward TJ Power acknowledged Illinois’ talent, saying, “Obviously a talented team…[They have] the big names.” However, Power also expressed confidence in his team’s momentum, stating, “We’re hot right now. I don’t know if teams want to observe us, too.”
The Quakers advanced to the tournament after securing two overtime wins against Harvard and Yale in the Ancient Eight tournament. The team was without senior guard/forward Ethan Roberts, the team’s leading scorer, due to a concussion sustained during practice. His status for the tournament remains uncertain, with McCaffery stating Roberts would be “re-evaluated.”
Penn players and staff celebrated their tournament berth with a team gathering including student athletes, coaches, staff, and families. McCaffery emphasized the significance of the moment, saying, “It’s the greatest feeling in the world” and expressing his wish that all players he’s coached could experience the tournament at least once.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where will Penn play Illinois?
Penn will face Illinois on March 19 at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, S.C., with tipoff at 9:25 p.m.
What is Illinois’ record for the season?
Illinois finished the season with a 24-8 overall record.
Who is Illinois’ leading player?
Freshman guard Keaton Wagler, the Big Ten Freshman of the Year, leads Illinois, averaging 17.9 points per game.
Will Penn be able to overcome the odds and advance in the tournament?
