Illinois is set to host Illinois State in a highly anticipated exhibition game on Sunday at the State Farm Center. The game will kick off at 2 p.m. CT and marks Illinois’ first match against the Redbirds in over two decades.
Significance of the Exhibition Game
This exhibition represents a reunion of sorts, as Illinois and Illinois State last faced each other on January 3, 2004, when the Illini won 80-73 in overtime. The current Redbirds’ head coach, Ryan Pedon, has a history with Illinois, having served as an assistant coach from 2014 to 2015. Additionally, the Illinois State roster features former Illini player Brandon Lieb, who played under head coach Brad Underwood from 2021 to 2023.
Current Rankings and Expectations
The Fighting Illini enter the 2025-26 season ranked 17th in the AP poll. This ranking marks the fifth consecutive season the program has been acknowledged under Underwood’s leadership. With expectations soaring in Champaign, Illinois aims to build upon last year’s impressive performance, which included 22 victories and progress to the NCAA Round of 32.
Key Players Returning
Illinois is welcoming back several pivotal players from last season:
- Kylan Boswell – Point Guard
- Tomislav Ivisic – Center
- Ben Humrichous – Forward
- Jake Davis – Forward
These athletes accounted for 45% of the team’s total playing time last season and contributed significantly to both scoring and rebounding.
New Additions to the Roster
This season, Illinois has enhanced its roster with impactful transfers and talented freshmen:
- Zvonimir Ivisic – Forward, brother of Tomislav, transferred from Arkansas
- Andrej Stojakovic – Guard, transferred from Cal
- Mihailo Petrovic – Point Guard, hailing from Serbia
- David Mirkovic – Forward, from Montenegro
- Keaton Wagler – Guard, 2025 Kansas Gatorade Player of the Year
- Brandon Lee – Guard, prominent scorer in New Jersey
These new players are expected to bring fresh talent, skill, and energy to the team.
Looking Ahead
With Illinois ranked sixth in the kenpom metrics as the season approaches, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this blend of experience and youth will perform. The exhibition against Illinois State will serve as an important gauge for the Illini as they work toward their goals for the season.
