A crucial Big Ten matchup takes place on February 18, 2026, as the No. 10 Illinois Fighting Illini travel to Los Angeles to face the USC Trojans at the Galen Center. With the regular season entering an important phase, every game now has major impact on conference standings and NCAA Tournament positioning.
Illinois come into this contest with strong momentum and one of the most efficient offenses in college basketball this season. The Fighting Illini are competing for a top seed in the conference and cannot afford to drop games against mid-table opponents. On the other hand, USC are fighting to stay competitive in the Big Ten race. Despite injuries affecting their rotation, the Trojans have been solid at home and will look to use that advantage against a top-ranked opponent.
This game is expected to be competitive, with Illinois entering as favorites, but USC’s home form and fast-paced style could make it a high-scoring battle.
Match Details
| Match | Illinois vs USC |
|---|---|
| Date | February 18, 2026 |
| Time | 10:00 PM ET (Approx. 8:30 AM IST, Feb 19) |
| Venue | Galen Center, Los Angeles, California |
| TV Channel | Big Ten Network (BTN) |
| Streaming | FOX Sports App / FOX One |
Team Records & Conference Standing
| Team | Overall Record | Conference Record |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 21–5 | 12–3 (Top of Big Ten race) |
| USC | 18–7 | 7–7 |
Illinois are among the top teams in the conference, while USC remain in the middle of the standings and need key wins to strengthen their postseason chances.
Recent Form & Momentum
Illinois Fighting Illini
Illinois bounced back strongly after two overtime losses with a convincing win over Indiana. The team has been excellent on the road (6–1) and currently ranks among the best offensive units in the country. Their balanced scoring and strong three-point shooting make them a dangerous opponent.
USC Trojans
USC are coming off a tough road loss to Ohio State. Injuries have been the biggest challenge this season, preventing the Trojans from playing at full strength. However, they hold a strong 9–3 home record, which gives them confidence heading into this matchup.
2025-26 Team Stats Comparison
| Category | Illinois | USC |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 84.2 | 81.3 |
| Points Allowed | 68.2 | 75.8 |
| 3-Pointers Made | 11.2 | 6.2 |
| Assists | 14.5 | 15.3 |
| Turnovers | 8.9 | 12.1 |
Illinois hold a clear edge in shooting efficiency and ball control, while USC rely more on pace and playmaking.
Key Players to Watch
Illinois Leaders
| Player | PPG | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Keaton Wagler | 18.5 | Team’s top scorer, strong recent performances |
| Kylan Boswell | 14.0 | Back from injury, key playmaker |
| Andrej Stojakovic | 13.7 | Game-time decision |
| David Mirkovic | 13.0 | Strong inside presence |
Wagler has been the driving force for Illinois, including multiple high-scoring outings recently.
USC Leaders
| Player | PPG | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Rodney Rice | 20.3 | Out for season (shoulder) |
| Chad Baker-Mazara | 18.3 | Day-to-day (knee) |
| Alijah Arenas | 15.4 | Game-time decision |
| Ezra Ausar | 15.7 | Key contributor |
USC’s offensive depth depends heavily on the availability of Baker-Mazara and Arenas.
Injury Report (Latest)
Illinois
- Andrej Stojakovic – Game-time decision (ankle)
- Amarion Dickerson – Out
- Kylan Boswell – Recently returned
USC
- Rodney Rice – Out for season
- Chad Baker-Mazara – Questionable
- Alijah Arenas – Game-time decision
USC’s injury concerns remain a major factor for this matchup.
Betting Odds & Market Lines
| Market | Odds |
|---|---|
| Spread | Illinois -9.5 |
| Moneyline | Illinois -488 |
| Over/Under | 150.5 – 151.5 |
Illinois have an implied win probability of over 80%, making them clear favorites.
Betting Trends & Insights
- Illinois: 16–10 ATS this season
- USC: 13–11 ATS
- Combined scoring average: 165.5 points per game
- Over has hit in multiple games for both teams
- USC home games: Over 7–4
With USC playing at a faster tempo and Illinois owning an elite offense, this game could turn into a scoring contest.
Head-to-Head & Last Meeting
| Last Meeting | Result |
|---|---|
| Jan 11, 2025 | USC 82 – 72 Illinois |
USC have had success in recent matchups, which adds another interesting angle to this contest.
Best Picks for Illinois vs USC
- Spread Pick: USC +9.5
- Total Pick: Over 151.5
- Player Focus:
- Keaton Wagler strong scoring potential
- Alijah Arenas (if active) coming off high-scoring performances
USC’s home strength and Illinois’ road scoring ability point toward a competitive and high-scoring game.
Match Prediction
Illinois enter with better form, deeper rotation, and one of the best offenses in the country. However, USC’s home record and fast pace should keep the game close.
Predicted Score:
Illinois 81 – 74 USC
Illinois remain the stronger team and should secure the win, but the Trojans’ home advantage and offensive pace make them a strong candidate to stay within the spread. Expect an entertaining, high-tempo game with plenty of scoring as both teams push for important Big Ten positioning late in the season.
