CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – The Illinois men’s basketball team will face a significant defensive gap as they play without their top defender for several weeks, posing a major hurdle in already challenging games against teams like Purdue, Nebraska, and Michigan State.

The Illini will immediately feel the pressure in their upcoming game without Boswell, especially as they attempt to contain Maryland’s standout, David Coit.

Coit, who recently earned the title of Big Ten Player of the Week, delivered a remarkable 43-point game on Sunday, leading the Terrapins to secure their first Big Ten victory over Penn State. His recent performances include a 30-point game last Tuesday, a 31-point effort against Michigan, and a 41-point showcase in a non-conference matchup.

Illinois head coach Brad Underwood emphasized the need for a collective effort to manage the threat posed by Maryland’s experienced guard.

“The guy is on a roll,” Underwood noted. “He’s a veteran player coming off a 43-point game, and he managed to score 30 in just one half. He hit nine three-pointers. He has the ultimate green light. Teams have tried various strategies against him, yet he continually finds ways to score. And Maryland is more than just about him.”

Underwood says Maryland presents challenges in its ability to get to the free throw line, offensive rebounding and an ability to mix-up defensive looks.

Illinois will put its seven-game winning streak on the line on Wednesday and seek to turn the tide on recent history between these two programs. Maryland has won 12 of the last 15 meetings dating back to 2016.

Maryland enters Wednesday’s contest 8-10 overall on the year and 1-6 in conference play. The game is scheduled to tip-off at 6 p.m. on Big Ten Network.