2023 March Madness 1st round bracket breakdown: West Region
No. 8 Arkansas vs. No. 9 Illinois
It was not the regular season that the Razorbacks were hoping for, finishing conference play with an 8-10 record. But they have the talent to do some damage. Arkansas has a trio of freshmen in Anthony Black, Jordan Walsh and the now-healthy Nick Smith who can all make an impact. Junior Ricky Council is their leading scorer and sophomore Trevon Brazile can provide a little bit of everything.
Illinois has the talent but has not had the results. Lead guard Terrence Shannon has one of the higher ceilings in college basketball. If he is on the floor, the Illini have a chance.聽
Prediction: Arkansas