NEW YORK (Interstat) — A marquee nonconference clash is set for Madison Square Garden on Friday as the Illinois Fighting Illini face the Connecticut Huskies.

Illinois (6-1) enters the contest on a two-game winning streak, most recently defeating Texas-Rio Grande Valley 87-73 on Monday. Andrej Stojakovic led the way with 24 points in that victory. The Fighting Illini’s only blemish is a narrow 90-86 home loss to Alabama on Nov. 19.

Connecticut (5-1) looks to continue its momentum after a dominant 72-49 win over Bryant on Sunday, fueled by Silas Demary Jr.’s double-double of 10 points and 10 assists. The Huskies’ sole defeat came against Arizona, 71-67, in a tight battle on Nov. 19.

This neutral-site game in New York offers a major test for both teams before conference play intensifies. Illinois boasts a high-powered offense, having scored at least 81 points in every game this season. Connecticut has shown a stout defense, holding its last two opponents under 50 points.

The matchup features two of the nation’s top teams seeking a signature early-season victory. The game is scheduled for a 7 p.m. EST tip-off on Friday, Nov. 28.