The Illini men are in the top five for the first time since 2007, after a some great wins this season, including those over Kentucky and Florida. They are not the only Midwesterners high in the rankings. Ohio State, who has been a consistent figure in this position over the last few years, is one spot above Illinois at No. 3. Michigan, whose Evan King picked up his second Big Ten Athlete of the Week Award this season after helping his team defeat No. 6 Duke, climbed up to No. 8. Minnesota is also now a top 20 team, enjoying a high spot at No. 16.
On the women’s side, two Big Ten teams are consistently remaining in the top 10. The Michigan women are in the No. 4 spot and Northwestern isn’t too far behind at No. 9. The next team in the league, however, is all the way down at No. 41, where Indiana is positioned. Northwestern’s jump came after they took out No. 3 North Carolina last week. Stacey Lee received the Big Ten Athlete of the Week Award for clinching that victory in a three set win over a player who she grew up playing in the East, Lauren McHale.
The Conference season has begun so look for more Big Ten matchups. This weekend that includes Ohio State at Penn State and Illinois at Iowa for the men; Illinois at Penn State and Wisconsin at Minnesota for the women.
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