Indiana Basketball: Big Ten Power Rankings Heading into Conference Play

No. 3-1

3. #23 Wisconsin 9-3, 1-0

The Wisconsin Badgers win with defense and efficiency. Wisconsin is also one of the more experienced teams in the conference. It also helps to have one of the best home-court advantages in college basketball. The Kohl Center is one of the most challenging places in the country to win a road game. Their three losses were to Tennessee, Arizona, and Providence. They do own a win against Marquette.

2. #11 Illinois 10-2, 1-0

Terrance Shannon's suspension throws a lot of what the Illini want to do this season into flux. The core must step up until Shannon returns. If he does not return, three players have to step up and meet the challenge of playing without their star. Marcus Domask, Quincy Guerrier and Coleman Hawkins are more than capable scorers and defenders.

1. #1 Purdue 12-1, 1-1

Purdue is the defending Big Ten regular season and tournament champion. They are one of the best teams in college basketball again this season. None of that matters in West Lafayette. The Boilermakers are the answer to a trivia question: "Who was the second #16 seed to lose to a #1 seed? The only thing that matters to Zach Edey and the Boilers is a deep run in March Madness.