When Illinois coach Brad Underwood looks back on his team’s game against Connecticut on Black Friday, he almost doesn’t recognize the Illini.

As Illinois focuses on winning the 2026 National Championship, here's a look back at the school's full championship history.

Here's a look at how Illinois freshman star Keaton Wagler went from an underrated recruit to leading the Fighting Illini to the 2026 Final Four.

Inside Illinois' coaching staff: Meet Brad Underwood's son Tyler and more assistants on Fighting Illini program originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Starting in April, the Chicago area will see a wave of events in honor of America’s 250th birthday. The moment is leading some organizations to take a more nuanced look at the nation's past.

FIRST IN PLAYBOOK: Gov. JB Pritzker and Illinois Democrats are seizing on a wave of new job commitments and private-sector investment, countering Republican attacks that companies are fleeing the state.

HOUSTON — Freshman Keaton Wagler scored 25 points and Illinois ended Iowa’s underdog March Madness run by dominating in the frontcourt, beating the Hawkeyes 71-59 on Saturday to advance to the Final Four for the first time since 2005.

Jake Davis is happy to home, and wants to keep his perfect record at Lucas Oil Stadium in tact. He's also elevated a diverse Illinois basketball team.