Chambana Sun

The Illinois Fighting Illini are set to face Morehead State in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on March 21, 2024. The game will take place at the CHI Health Center Omaha, with a scheduled tip-off at 2:10 p.m. CT. Fans can watch the match on TruTV or stream it via NCAA March Madness Live.

Under Head Coach Brad Underwood, Illinois has been one of the most successful teams in Big Ten play over recent years. The team has achieved 69 Big Ten wins from 2019-20 through 2023-24, marking the highest five-year win total in school history. "Brad Underwood has brought Fighting Illini Basketball back to being a national contender," reads part of an analysis on his impact.

Illinois is making its 34th appearance in the NCAA Tournament and its fourth consecutive one. The team ranks fifth among Big Ten schools for tournament appearances and is tied for 19th nationally. "Illinois' active streak of four straight NCAA Tournament appearances is its longest since participating eight years in a row from 2000 through 2007."

Terrence Shannon Jr., who transferred from Texas Tech, leads Illinois in scoring during past tournaments with an average of 13.5 points per game over six games. He also leads the team in assists and steals during tournament play.

This year's No. 3 seed marks Illinois' fourth time holding this position historically, with their last as a No. 3 seed occurring in 1988.

The Illini have previously faced Morehead State only once before, securing a decisive victory back in December 1993 with a scoreline of #16 Illinois defeating Morehead St., 110-75.

Coach Underwood's record includes leading Stephen F. Austin to three consecutive NCAA appearances and taking Oklahoma State to the tournament during his tenure there.

As Illinois prepares for another potential deep run into March Madness, they aim to build upon their strong performances under Coach Underwood’s leadership.