(3) Illinois Fighting Illini vs. (14) Morehead State Eagles
Date: Thursday, March 21
Tip-off time: 3:10 PM
Where to watch: TruTV
The Fighting Illini come into this game a 12.5-point favorite and will rely on top-scorer Terrance Shannon Jr. (23 PPG). Morehead State will be looking repeat their Cinderella-run of 2011. They'll need a big game from their top scorer and rebounder, Riley Minix (20.8 PPG & 9.8 RPG).
(3) Kentucky Wildcats vs. (14) Oakland Golden Grizzlies
Date: Thursday, March 21
Tip-off time: 7:10 PM
Where to watch: CBS
Despite a lackluster season, the Wildcats are still a dangerous tournament team. Kentucky's guard play by Antonio Reeves (20 PPG), Rob Dillingham (15.2), and Reed Sheppard (12. 8) will be key to them winning. Trey Townsend, who leads the Golden Grizzlies in scoring, rebounds and assists, will be key to their upset chances on Thursday.
(3) Creighton Blue Jays vs. (14) Akron Zips
Date: Thursday, March 21
Tip-off time: 1:30 PM
Where to watch: TNT
The Blue Jays will be looking to rebound from a disappointing conference tournament run. Leading scorer and rebounder Baylor Scheierman (18.4 & 9) will lead the Creighton attack. The MAC champion Zips will be looking to play the upset role on Thursday. They'll be led by Enrique Freeman, who averages a double-double this season (18.4 PPG & 12.9 RPG).
(7) Dayton Flyers vs. (10) Nevada Wolfack
Date: Thursday, March 21
Tip-off time: 4:30 PM
Where to watch: TBS
The Flyers make their first appearance since 2017 and 10 years removed from their Elite 8 run in 2014. Dayton will be led by Daron Holmes II who averages 20.4 points per game. The Wolfpack are making their second-straight appearance in the tournament and will rely on Jarod Lucas, averaging 17.8 points per game.
(2) Marquette Golden Eagles vs. (15) Western Kentucky Hilltoppers
Date: Friday, March 22
Tip-off time: 2:00 PM
Where to watch: TBS
The Golden Eagles will be looking to make a strong run in this years' tournament behind guards Kam Jones (16.8 PPG) and Tyler Kolek (15 PPG). The Hilltoppers will be looking to Don McHenry (15.2 PPG) to lead the Conference USA champs to an upset on opening weekend.
Comments