Non-conference schedules can make or break a season — and Illinois isn’t playing it safe again this year. Brad Underwood has leaned into tougher opponents, putting Illinois on the national stage and testing the team early. Personally, I love it. This is what big-time programs do: they don’t duck competition, they chase it.
This year’s slate is loaded. Illinois has five non-conference Power 5 matchups, each against legitimate programs. Here’s how I rank the games I’m most excited for, from #5 to #1.
5. Dec. 6 vs. Tennessee (Bridgestone Arena, Nashville)
I’ll be honest — I’m a little tired of Tennessee. Illinois is 0-2 against the Vols in the last two years, including a soul-crushing last-second loss that derailed my family’s Christmas party. To make matters worse, this so-called “neutral site” game is in Nashville — basically Knoxville’s backyard. Illini fans travel well, but let’s not pretend this is neutral.
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Tennessee is a perennial contender under Rick Barnes. A win would be a strong résumé boost, but their grinding, defensive style rarely makes for fun basketball. Between the fake-neutral setup, the recent history, and their style of play, this one ranks lowest on my list.
Storyline to Watch
Can Illinois finally break through against a program that has had its number?
4. Dec. 22 vs. Missouri (Enterprise Center, St. Louis)
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.
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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.
Storyline to Watch
Braggin’ Rights never needs extra hype. It’s tradition, and it’s about bragging rights that last all year.
3. Nov. 11 vs. Texas Tech (State Farm Center)
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.
The good news: the game is in Champaign. Trust me, you don’t want to play this team in Lubbock. Their arena is one of the toughest in the country, so Illinois is lucky to get them at home.
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Storyline to Watch
This one has shootout potential. Texas Tech was a top-5 offense last season, and Brad Underwood has been leaning into a faster, higher-scoring system. Expect fireworks.
2. Nov. 19 vs. Alabama (United Center, Chicago)
Illinois lost to Alabama last year, and this time the rematch comes at the United Center in front of what will surely be a raucous pro-Illini crowd.
Alabama, once thought of as just a football school, has become an SEC basketball powerhouse under Nate Oats. They run one of the nation’s most explosive offenses, and Illinois will need to bring it to keep pace.
Storyline to Watch
This game could define Illinois’ non-conference résumé. A win over Alabama would be a statement, and with both teams playing at a breakneck pace, this has all the makings of a shootout.
1. Nov. 28 vs. UConn (Madison Square Garden, New York City)
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.
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This game also takes place in Madison Square Garden — the Mecca of basketball. The atmosphere will be electric, and this is exactly the kind of stage Illinois needs to prove it belongs among the sport’s elite.
Storyline to Watch
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.
Illinois’ non-conference schedule is no joke — and that’s exactly how it should be. From rivalries like Mizzou, to revenge games against Alabama, Tennessee, and UConn to national showcases against Texas Tech, the Illini will be tested early and often.
For fans, it means plenty of chances to see Illinois on the national stage before Big Ten play begins. For the team, it’s a gauntlet that could set the tone for March.
