Source: Next season's game between UConn and Illinois will be played on Friday, December 4th at the United Center in Chicago.
The two teams played last season at MSG prior to meeting again in the Final Four.
Quote from Zavier Zens' Dad, Greg:
"As soon as Zavier finished his visit at Illinois, he knew it was the place to be. Zavier wants to play in the NBA and Illinois has the best player development program in the Country.
We love Coach Hamer and the entire coaching staff!"
Illinois is set to return five of its top eight scorers and 62.1% of its scoring from a Final Four team while adding Stefan Vaaks (15.7 PPG) from Providence.
The Illini should be on fire entering 2026-27.
Andrej Stojakovic is returning to Illinois next season, per his agent Drake U'u.
Averaged 13.5 PPG and 4.5 RPG last season.
Another significant returning piece for the Illini.
A message from Keaton Wagler as he declares for the NBA Draft:
“Illini fans are the best in the world… Champaign, Illinois will always hold a special place in my heart.”
#Illini Brad Underwood says his team's practice before coming to Houston was something he's only seen one other time -- before the canceled 2020 tournament.
"It's one of those where you just don't want it to end... It was very fun. We were very dialed in. Very emotional practice, very intense."
(Video from KXAN)