Cincinnati vs. Illinois Prediction and Odds: Back Illini in Kofi Cockburn's Return

After being suspended for the first three games due to NIL issues, Illinois' big man Kofi Cockburn is set to make his season debut in the first round of Hall of Fame Classic in Kansas City, Missouri.

The Illini lost to Marquette on the road last week without Cockburn, and will look to get back on track against Cincinnati.

How should we handicap this matchup? First, let's look at the odds from WynnBET Sportsbook.

Cincinnati vs. Illinois Odds, Spread and Total

Spread:

• Cincinnati: +9.5 (+110)
• Illinois: -9.5 (-110)

Moneyline:

• Cincinnati: +370
• Illinois: -450

Total:

• 137.5 (Over -110/Under -110)

Cincinnati vs. Illinois Prediction and Pick

Illinois' loss to Marquette was a bizarre one, as the team struggled to hold a late lead with sloppy ball handling and an inability to keep the Golden Eagles off the free throw line.

However, the half court defense was still solid and Illinois was able to thrive off of misses. The addition of Cockburn will be impactful against Cincinnati, who don't have an answer inside for him. Last season, the Bearcats were middle of the pack in two-point defense and 299th in foul rate, so the Illini can build their lead at the charity stripe.

Cockburn averaged 17 points and eight rebounds last season, and his impact on the offense will likely take the onus off of Andre Curbelo, who has been apart of 37% of possessions, which has pushed his turnover rate towards 30%.

As well, sophomore big man Coleman Hawkins will slide back into a lesser role, which should suit him better as a versatile big man that can spread the floor next to Cockburn.

Brad Underwood's team is going to be an elite defensive team all season, and I see them shutting down the Bearcats avenues to staying close. I'd lay it with Illinois at anything below double digits.

LEAN: Illinois -9.5

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