College basketball is here and Phenom Hoops is increasing their coverage this season. This is why we bring you our daily schedule of games to watch for and break down a few key games that should have your attention. Check out today’s lineup.
Notre Dame at Illinois
Both teams come in with two losses already on the season and statistically, these two teams match up pretty well. Illinois was able to bounce back from two straight losses last week but they can’t afford another loss. Kofi Cockburn has been off the charts and proving to be one of the top bigs in the country, averaging 26.3ppg, 10.0rpg, including coming off a 38-point performance last Friday. It is a big road game for Notre Dame, who has seen players like Goodwin, Atkinson Jr, and Wesley step up but also have Laszewski and Hubb that have struggled early on. A talented group that is hoping to make some noise Monday night.
Iowa at Virginia
The Big Ten/ACC Challenge kicks off this week and Iowa vs. Virginia should be a very interesting showdown. Iowa comes in undefeated and red hot, especially offensively as the Hawkeyes are averaging 97.2 points per game. They are led by Keegan Murray, who has been posting averages of 25.7ppg and 8.8rpg. But they go up against UVA and their defense, on the road… no easy matter. The matchup between Jayden Gardner vs. Murray should be fun to watch.
South Florida at Boston College
Under the radar matchup, USF hits the road to take on the Eagles. BC ended their 3-game losing streak against Columbia last week and looks to secure back-to-back wins. USF has struggled offensively early on this season, not shooting the ball well (37.2 percent overall) and averaging just 56 points per game. They will have to get it done defensively vs. the Eagles, as they look to slow down the three-guard lineup of Langford, Zackery, and Ashton-Langford, all of which have been averaging 30+ minutes and double-figures to start the season.
Others To Keep an Eye On:
Norfolk State vs. Grambling
NC Central vs. Gardner-Webb
Tulsa vs. Oral Roberts
Montana vs. Oregon
Grand Canyon vs. Loyola Marymount
UC Riverside vs. Saint Mary’s