Illinois Fans Can’t Miss These 5 Non-Conference Showdowns That Could Make or Break the Season

Don’t let the #4 spot fool you, Braggin’ Rights is always circled on the calendar for every Illini fan. Mizzou had a solid year last season (22-12, one of the nation’s most efficient offenses) before flaming out in the tournament. They’ll be competitive again, and this game is always a toss-up regardless of records.

2. Nov. 19 vs. Alabama (United Center, Chicago)

Can Illinois make a national statement against another blue blood like they did against Duke in 2020? A win here would send shockwaves through college basketball and announce Illinois as a serious contender.

The split crowd in St. Louis is always incredible to see. It’s also a great chance for central and southern Illinois fans to see the team up close, and they never disappoint.

Non-conference games — those electrifying early tests that either catapult a team into the national conversation or leave them scratching their heads come March. Illinois is diving headfirst into the deep end again this season, refusing to play it safe. Coach Brad Underwood’s dial is turned all the way up, stacking the schedule with top-tier opponents that will push the Illini to their limits — right out of the gate. Honestly, I’m all for it. This is what powerhouse programs do: they don’t shy away from the heat; they go chasing after it like hunters. With five heavyweight Power 5 foes lined up, each battle promises a spectacle that’s not just about wins and losses, but about proving Illinois belongs on the grand stage. Buckle up, because this slate demands your full attention — here’s my countdown of the games that have me buzzing with anticipation, from #5 all the way to the one that tops the charts. LEARN MORE

Non-conference games — those electrifying early tests that either catapult a team into the national conversation or leave them scratching their heads come March. Illinois is diving headfirst into the deep end again this season, refusing to play it safe. Coach Brad Underwood’s dial is turned all the way up, stacking the schedule with top-tier opponents that will push the Illini to their limits — right out of the gate. Honestly, I’m all for it. This is what powerhouse programs do: they don’t shy away from the heat; they go chasing after it like hunters. With five heavyweight Power 5 foes lined up, each battle promises a spectacle that’s not just about wins and losses, but about proving Illinois belongs on the grand stage. Buckle up, because this slate demands your full attention — here’s my countdown of the games that have me buzzing with anticipation, from #5 all the way to the one that tops the charts. LEARN MORE

Non-conference games — those electrifying early tests that either catapult a team into the national conversation or leave them scratching their heads come March. Illinois is diving headfirst into the deep end again this season, refusing to play it safe. Coach Brad Underwood’s dial is turned all the way up, stacking the schedule with top-tier opponents that will push the Illini to their limits — right out of the gate. Honestly, I’m all for it. This is what powerhouse programs do: they don’t shy away from the heat; they go chasing after it like hunters. With five heavyweight Power 5 foes lined up, each battle promises a spectacle that’s not just about wins and losses, but about proving Illinois belongs on the grand stage. Buckle up, because this slate demands your full attention — here’s my countdown of the games that have me buzzing with anticipation, from #5 all the way to the one that tops the charts. LEARN MORE

Non-conference games — those electrifying early tests that either catapult a team into the national conversation or leave them scratching their heads come March. Illinois is diving headfirst into the deep end again this season, refusing to play it safe. Coach Brad Underwood’s dial is turned all the way up, stacking the schedule with top-tier opponents that will push the Illini to their limits — right out of the gate. Honestly, I’m all for it. This is what powerhouse programs do: they don’t shy away from the heat; they go chasing after it like hunters. With five heavyweight Power 5 foes lined up, each battle promises a spectacle that’s not just about wins and losses, but about proving Illinois belongs on the grand stage. Buckle up, because this slate demands your full attention — here’s my countdown of the games that have me buzzing with anticipation, from #5 all the way to the one that tops the charts. LEARN MORE

Non-conference games — those electrifying early tests that either catapult a team into the national conversation or leave them scratching their heads come March. Illinois is diving headfirst into the deep end again this season, refusing to play it safe. Coach Brad Underwood’s dial is turned all the way up, stacking the schedule with top-tier opponents that will push the Illini to their limits — right out of the gate. Honestly, I’m all for it. This is what powerhouse programs do: they don’t shy away from the heat; they go chasing after it like hunters. With five heavyweight Power 5 foes lined up, each battle promises a spectacle that’s not just about wins and losses, but about proving Illinois belongs on the grand stage. Buckle up, because this slate demands your full attention — here’s my countdown of the games that have me buzzing with anticipation, from #5 all the way to the one that tops the charts. LEARN MORE

4. Dec. 22 vs. Missouri (Enterprise Center, St. Louis)

This is the big one. UConn’s recent back-to-back national championships is nothing short of astounding. They are a certified blue blood. The Elite Eight loss to the Huskies was brutal, but this matchup offers a chance at redemption of some sorts. Danny Hurley’s teams are always disciplined, physical, and relentless.

Texas Tech is no pushover. The Red Raiders went 28-9 last year, reached the Elite Eight, and return Big 12 Player of the Year JT Toppin. They’re top-10 in plenty of preseason polls and added transfers to round out the roster.