Illinois vs. Kentucky Wildcats basketball game time, TV channel announced…….

The Illinois Fighting Illini and the Kentucky Wildcats are set to face off in the second round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament on Sunday, March 23, 2025. The game will tip off at 5:15 p.m. Eastern Time (4:15 p.m. Central Time) at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Fans can catch the live broadcast on CBS, with the commentary team comprising Kevin Harlan, Dan Bonner, Stan Van Gundy, and sideline reporter Lauren Shehadi. citeturn0news15

Illinois enters the matchup with a 22-12 record, having secured a convincing 86-73 victory over Xavier in the first round. Freshman guard Will Riley delivered an impressive performance, leading the team with 22 points. This win marked Illinois’ fifth consecutive appearance in the NCAA Tournament under the guidance of head coach Brad Underwood, who is in his eighth season with the program. citeturn0news15

Kentucky, holding a 23-11 record, advanced to the Round of 32 after defeating Troy University 76-57. This victory was particularly significant as it marked the Wildcats’ first NCAA Tournament win under head coach Mark Pope. Key contributors for Kentucky include Lamont Butler and Amari Williams, both of whom have been instrumental in the team’s success this season. citeturn0news14

The upcoming game is anticipated to be a closely contested battle, with odds and predictions suggesting no clear favorite. Illinois is currently favored by one point, with an over/under set at 170.5 points. The winner of this matchup will advance to the Sweet 16 and is scheduled to play on March 28 in Indianapolis against the victor of the game between UCLA and the Tennessee Volunteers. citeturn0news16

Both teams boast rich basketball traditions. Illinois has made five Final Four appearances, with the most recent in 2005. Kentucky, known for its storied program, has consistently been a formidable presence in the tournament. Fans can expect a high-energy game as both teams vie for a coveted spot in the Sweet 16.

For those unable to attend in person, CBS will provide comprehensive coverage of the game. Additionally, the game will be available for streaming via the March Madness Live platform, ensuring fans have multiple avenues to catch the action. citeturn0news14

As the tournament progresses, the intensity heightens, and this matchup between Illinois and Kentucky is poised to be one of the standout games of the Round of 32. Basketball enthusiasts and casual fans alike should tune in to witness what promises to be an exhilarating contest.

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