Chambana Sun

No. 19 Illinois is set to begin its Big Ten Conference play against Northwestern on Friday at Welsh-Ryan Arena in Evanston, Illinois. The game will start at 8 p.m. CT and will be broadcasted on BTN with Kevin Kugler and Robbie Hummel as commentators.

Illinois enters the matchup with a 6-1 record, while Northwestern stands at 6-3 after a conference loss. This meeting marks the 189th time these teams have faced each other, with Illinois leading the series 144-44. Despite recent setbacks at Northwestern's venue, Illinois has historically dominated this rivalry.

Brad Underwood, head coach of the Fighting Illini, commented on their return to rankings: "Illinois returned to the AP Top-25 rankings at No. 19 this week." He added that they are also positioned 17th in the latest Coaches Poll and hold the top mark in the Big Ten according to NCAA NET rankings.

The Illini's current roster has undergone significant changes since last season’s Elite Eight appearance and Big Ten Tournament Championship win. Newcomers have contributed over 91% of the team's scoring so far this season.

Underwood's tenure at Illinois continues to be marked by success: "Illinois is the winningest team in the Big Ten over the last five seasons," he noted, emphasizing their strong performance both during regular seasons and conference tournaments.

Statistically, Illinois ranks highly in several categories nationally, including total rebounds per game and scoring margin. Their offensive efficiency remains one of their strengths as well: "Offensively, the Fighting Illini's scoring average of 89.1 ppg ranks as the team's highest since the 1964-65 team."

As they prepare for Friday’s game against Northwestern, Illinois aims to maintain its position as a formidable force within college basketball under Coach Underwood’s leadership.