Illinois basketball is not for the faint of heart. It never has been.

This is Big Ten hoops the way it’s supposed to feel. Physical defense. Long scoring droughts that somehow turn into wild runs. Crowds that know when to stand before the shot even goes up. If you’ve watched Illinois long enough, you know every game feels like work. That’s kind of the point.

The last few seasons reminded everyone what this program is about. Competing in a league where nothing comes easy and earning wins the hard way. Brad Underwood has built teams that defend, rebound, and absolutely do not back down, especially at home. When Illinois is rolling, the State Farm Center gets uncomfortable for visiting teams fast.

By 2026, Illinois is right where fans expect them to be. In the Big Ten mix. In the NCAA Tournament conversation. Capable of beating anyone on a given night and frustrating the life out of teams that want to play pretty basketball.

This is also one of those programs where the crowd matters. Students packed in early. Alumni locked in. Every loose ball feels personal. You do not casually attend an Illinois game. You commit to it.

Watching on TV is fine, but being there hits different. You feel the momentum swings. You hear the bench. You know when a defensive stop is about to turn into a run.

If Big Ten basketball is your thing, Illinois is required viewing.