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The independent student newspaper at the University of Illinois since 1871

The Daily Illini
The independent student newspaper at the University of Illinois since 1871

The Daily Illini
The independent student newspaper at the University of Illinois since 1871

The Daily Illini
The independent student newspaper at the University of Illinois since 1871

The Daily Illini

Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor

[email protected]

Senior guard Terrence Shannon Jr. shoves on through Michigan's defense during the first half of the Illini's last home game of the season on Mar. 2. Shannon played great offensive against Penn State unfortunately the team was unable to secure the win and are now out of the Big Ten tournament.

Notes, player grades from Illinois’ early Big Ten tournament exit against Penn State

By James Kim and Carson Gourdie • March 9, 2023
Guard Terrence Shannon Jr. gives directions to the rest of the team to make a play against Michigan on Mar. 2. On Wednesday, Shannon announced that he would return to Champaign for one more season.

Notes, player grades from Illinois men’s basketball’s double-overtime victory over Michigan

By James Kim, Drew Friberg and Carson Gourdie • March 3, 2023
Guard R.J. Melendez gets the ball to the opposing side of the court on Thursday. Melendez showed growth in his role for the team during his play time against Ohio on Sunday.

Player grades from Illinois men’s basketball’s loss to Ohio State

By Carson Gourdie and Adam Rosen • February 26, 2023

DI Sports podcast: Shannon the key to success in March

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • February 24, 2023
Freshman guard/forward Ty Rodgers pulls freshman guard Sencire Harris to the side after a foul around the start of the second half during last night's game. After Harris' rough performance during the first half, his team helped get him back on track in order to make a comeback to defeat Northwestern.

Notes, player grades from Illinois men’s basketball’s electric comeback against No. 21 Northwestern

By James Kim, Drew Friberg and Carson Gourdie • February 24, 2023
Guard RJ Melendez executes a specialized handshake ending in a salute with assistant coach Tim Anderson before the start of last night's game. Melendez played with confidence throughout last night's game against Minnesota as significantly improving from his presence on the court earlier this season.

Notes, player grades from Illinois men’s basketball’s 9-point win over Minnesota

By James Kim, Carson Gourdie and Theo Gary • February 21, 2023
Guard/Forward Ty Rodgers takes on the Nebraska Cornhuskers at State Farm Center on January 31, 2023. Despite losing to Penn State Rodgers played significantly well on Tuesday.

Player grades from Illinois’ second loss of season to Penn State

By Drew Friberg, James Kim and Carson Gourdie • February 15, 2023
Forward Coleman Hawkins dunks the ball during Saturday's game against Rutgers. Hawkins scored a team-high against Rutgers however, he asserts that he still needs to improve offensively.

Column | ‘Assertive’ Coleman Hawkins propels Illini past No. 24 Rutgers

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • February 12, 2023
Although Illinois has recently offered Cole Certa, #5, a scholarship, it remains unclear what his role with the Illini would be. Certa has received three total Big Ten offers, among other schools.

[Photo] Analysis of Illinois target Cole Certa’s performance against St. Joseph-Ogden

February 1, 2023
Although Illinois has recently offered Cole Certa, #5, a scholarship, it remains unclear what his role with the Illini would be. Certa has received three total Big Ten offers, among other schools.

Analysis of Illinois target Cole Certa’s performance against St. Joseph-Ogden

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • February 1, 2023
Freshman guard Jayden Epps takes a shot against Indiana on Jan. 19. On Saturday, Epps finished the game against Wisconsin with 13 points on 5-10 shooting.

Player grades from Illinois’ 10-point win over Wisconsin

By Drew Friberg, Carson Gourdie and James Kim • January 28, 2023
Junior forward Coleman Hawkins defends against Ohio State on Tuesday. Hawkins had solid offense during the game, helping to secure a win for the Illini

DI Sports podcast: Coleman Hawkins shines in 9-point win over Buckeyes

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • January 25, 2023
Guard Terrence Shannon Jr. battles against Ohio State's defense on Tuesday. Shannon made 17 points during the Illini's match against Ohio State.

Notes, player grades from Illinois’ nine-point victory over Ohio State

By James Kim, Carson Gourdie and Drew Friberg • January 24, 2023
Head coach Brad Underwood yells at the referee during the Illini's game against Indiana on Thursday. Underwood gives praise to Trayce Jackson-Davis's performance against the Illini on Thursday that resulted in Indiana's victory.

Underwood reacts to Trayce Jackson-Davis’ 35 points in win over Illinois men’s basketball

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • January 20, 2023
Indiana State's forward Trayce Jackson-Davis blocks a layup from guard Sencire Harris during Friday's game. Harris made over half of his shots during Thursday's game but still needs improvement.

Notes, player grades from the Hoosier’s dominance at State Farm Center

By Drew Friberg, James Kim and Carson Gourdie • January 19, 2023
Junior forward Coleman Hawkins and senior guard Terrence Shannon Jr. cheer during the game against Wisconsin on Jan. 7.

Player grades from Illinois men’s basketball’s win over Minnesota

By Drew Friberg and Carson Gourdie • January 17, 2023
Illinois Fighting Illini basketball takes on the Michigan State Spartans at State Farm Center on January 13, 2023.

Notes, player grades from Illinois men’s basketball’s 75-66 win over Michigan State

By Drew Friberg, James Kim and Carson Gourdie • January 13, 2023
Guard Sencire Harris guards off the opposing team on Jan. 7, during a match against Wisconsin. Despite being a terrific guard for the Illini Harris still needs to work on his shooting as seen during Tuesday's game against Nebraska.

Notes, player grades from Illinois men’s basketball’s 76-50 win over Nebraska

By Drew Friberg, James Kim and Carson Gourdie • January 12, 2023
Forward Coleman Hawkins laughs at the sidelines alongside guard Terrance Shannon Jr. on Sunday. Hawkins played an amazing game against Wisconsin which led to the team's 79-69 victory on Sunday.

Notes, player grades from Illinois’ 10-point win over No. 14 Wisconsin

By Drew Friberg, Carson Gourdie and James Kim • January 7, 2023
Guard Jayden Epps jumps to the hoop during game against Northwestern on Jan. 4. During Wednesday's game against Northwestern Epps showed confidence however lacked precision throughout his shots.

Notes, player grades from Illinois’ loss against Northwestern

By James Kim and Carson Gourdie • January 4, 2023
Coach Bret Bielema walks the field on Aug. 27. The Illini seek to improve after a defeat from Mississippi State during the ReliaQuest Bowl on Monday.

Column | Illini need offensive overhaul for Big Ten contention in 2023

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • January 2, 2023

Three and out: Takeaways from Illinois’ comeback loss at ReliaQuest Bowl

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • January 2, 2023
Guard Sencire Harris celebrates a score against Penn State on Dec. 10. Harris had a spectacular performance as a starter during Thursday's game against Bethune-Cookman that ended with a 85-52 victory in favor of the Illini.

Notes, player grades from Illinois’ win over Bethune-Cookman

By Drew Friberg, James Kim and Carson Gourdie • December 30, 2022
Guard Skyy Clark attempts to block Penn State from making it to the hoop during a match off on Dec. 10. Clark played a good game against Alabama A&M on Saturday but suffered from fouls during the match.

Player grades, notes for Illinois men’s basketball’s win over Alabama A&M

By Drew Friberg, Carson Gourdie and James Kim • December 18, 2022

Underwood blasts players for lack of leadership following 15-point loss to Penn State

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • December 10, 2022
Junior forward Coleman Hawkins goes for the lay up against Syracuse on Nov. 29.

Notes, player grades from Illinois’ loss against No. 22 Maryland

By James Kim and Carson Gourdie • December 3, 2022
Sophomore guard RJ Melendez looks for someone to pass to during the second half against Syracuse on Tuesday.

Notes, player grades from Illinois’ 29-point victory over Syracuse

By Drew Friberg, James Kim and Carson Gourdie • November 29, 2022
Senior guard Terrence Shannon Jr. stands on the end of the court waiting for the game to resume against Syracuse on Tuesday.

Postgame podcast: DI Sports talks Hawkins’ triple-double, Big Ten schedule

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • November 29, 2022
Freshman guard Jayden Epps dribbles the ball during the exhibition game against Quincy on Oct 28.

Player grades from Illinois’ loss to No. 16 Virginia in Vegas

By Drew Friberg, James Kim and Carson Gourdie • November 21, 2022
Freshman guard Sencire Harris dunks the ball during the game against Kansas City on Nov. 11.

Notes, player grades from Illinois men’s basketball’s upset over No. 8 UCLA

By Drew Friberg, James Kim and Carson Gourdie • November 19, 2022
Freshman guard Jayden Epps goes for the lay up during the second half of the game against Kansas City on Friday.

Notes, player grades from Illinois’ 38-point win over Monmouth

By Drew Friberg, James Kim and Carson Gourdie • November 14, 2022
Sophomore wide receiver Pay Bryant attempts to catch the ball during the game against Purdue on Saturday.

Three and Out (of contention): Illinois outplayed by Purdue in Big Ten West clincher

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • November 12, 2022
Junior running back Chase Brown celebrates his second touchdown during the last home game of the regular season against Purdue on Saturday.

Bielema’s press conference analysis: Where does Saturday’s loss leave Illinois football?

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • November 12, 2022
Freshman guard Skyy Clark dribbles the ball down the court during the second half against Kansas City on Nov. 11.

Notes, player grades from Illinois men’s basketball’s win over Kansas City

By Drew Friberg, Carson Gourdie and James Kim • November 12, 2022
Forward Dain Dainja prepares to pass the ball during last night's game against Eastern Illinois. Dainja achieved his first double-double within his 16 minutes of court time during last night's match.

Notes, player grades from Illinois men’s basketball home opener

By Drew Friberg, Carson Gourdie and James Kim • November 8, 2022
Guard/forward Ty Rodgers makes an effort for layup against Eastern Illinois during Monday's game. Despite the team's lack of offensive rhythm from the Illini Rodgers managed a team high of five-assists alongside a great performance.

Takeaways from night one of Illinois men’s basketball season

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • November 8, 2022
Wide receiver Desmond Dan Jr. prepares for a pass as Marques Buford Jr., defensive back for Nebraska, prepares to intercept during a match on Aug. 28, 2021. The Daily Illini Podcast alongside SBNation beat writer Jon Johnston discuss and predict the Illini's and Nebraska's faceoff this season happening today.

Daily Illini sports podcast previews Nebraska with SBNation beat writer

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • October 29, 2022
Illinois defense swarms the Minnesota quarterback on Saturday during the 26-14 win.

No. 18 Illini pass Big Ten West test

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • October 15, 2022
The Illini come together after a math against Rutgers during senior night on Mar. 27. The Illini will be heading into the new season under the direction of the team's new head coach and former head coach for the Dayton Flyers, Shauna Green.

Analyzing Shauna Green’s first Big Ten basketball media days as Illinois head coach

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • October 12, 2022
Illinois men's basketball head coach Brad Underwood watches the team warm up from the sidelines before the game against Ohio State on Feb. 24.

Analyzing Brad Underwood’s Big Ten media day press conference

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • October 11, 2022
Defensive back Kendall Smith goes into tackle Iowa tight end Luke Lachey on Saturday. The Illini took the victory against Iowa on Saturday night's game.

Three and Out: Illini claim B1G West frontrunner status

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • October 9, 2022
Junior running back Chase Brown takes the ball down the field during the game against Chattanooga on Sept. 22.

Daily Illini Sports Podcast: Iowa-Illinois prediction with Hawkeye beat writer

By Carson Gourdie and Josh Pietsch • October 8, 2022
Senior quarterback Tommy DeVito goes to throw the ball during the game against Wyoming on Aug. 27.

Badgers beat writer, DI sports staff preview Illinois football’s match against Wisconsin

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • September 30, 2022

Improved passing game gives Illinois hope against Wisconsin

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • September 23, 2022

Three and out: Illinois avenges last season’s loss with stellar defensive performance over Virginia

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • September 11, 2022
Running back Chase Brown catches the ball while heading towards the end zone during the game against Wyoming on Aug. 27. Mike Barber of the Richmond Times-Dispatch shares his predictions and inputs for the upcoming match this Saturday on the latest Daily Illini Sports Podcast.

Daily Illini Sports Podcast predicts Illinois football success alongside Virginia beat writer

By Carson Gourdie and Josh Pietsch • September 9, 2022
Senior quarterback Tommy DeVito runs the ball during the game against Indiana on Friday. The Illini fall against Indiana 23-20.

Daily Illini Sports staff reacts to Illinois’ week 1 disappointment at Indiana

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • September 2, 2022
Junior running back Chase Brown runs down the field with the ball during the Spring Orange and Blue game on April 21. The Daily Illini Sports podcast goes into the football season as the home opener comes this Saturday against Wyoming.

Daily Illini Sports podcast discusses football season opener with Wyoming beat writer

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • August 25, 2022
Wide receiver, Isaiah Williams dodges an attempt to tackle him from Rutgers on Oct. 30. Williams has been practicing during the off-season catching 250 balls each day from the jug machine to ensure he is ready for a transition from wide receiver to wide out.

Illinois football answer questions on expansion, offense amid B1G Media Days

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • July 28, 2022
Senior Tommy Kuhl swings his club during the NCAA Championship on June 1. Kuhl finished the round shooting three-under during the Southern Highlands Collegiate.

Illinois men’s golf sees steady improvements, finishes eighth in Las Vegas 

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • March 2, 2022
Wide receiver Danny Navarro III (96) takes the ball up the field during the game against Northwestern on Nov. 27. Columnist Carson Gourdie believes that the Illini need a change in structure for next season.

Column | Illinois can’t replicate 2021 blueprint for future success

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • December 2, 2021
Former Illinois head coach Lovie Smith walks along the sidelines before the game against Northwestern at Ryan Field on Dec. 12. Columnist Carson Gourdie argues that Illinois needs to knock Pat Fitzgerald down a notch for in-state success.

Column | Illinois needs to knock Pat Fitzgerald down a notch for in-state success

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • November 25, 2021
Football head coach, Bret Bielema, walks onto the field during the Homecoming game against Wisconsin on Oct. 9. With Bielema's straightforward approach, it may help in improving the team in the future.

Column | Bielema’s blunt style proves he’s built to save Illinois football program

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • November 18, 2021
Running back Chase Brown sprints with the ball during the game against Rutgers Oct. 30. Defenses' improved playing doesn't justify offenses' game plan.

Column | Defense‘s improved playing doesn’t vindicate offensive game plan

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • November 11, 2021
Head coach Bret Bielema celebrates with quarterback Brandon Peters during the game against Maryland on Sept. 17. Peters has signed with the Los Angeles Chargers as undrafted free agent.

Column | Illinois-Minnesota is the next Big Ten rivalry

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • November 4, 2021
Quarterback Brandon Peters looks to pass the ball during the game against Maryland Sept. 19. Sports columnist Carson Gourdie belives that if Peters uses his legs he can lead Illinois to their second bowl game in three seasons.

Column | Peters’ legs can lead Illinois football to bowl game

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • October 28, 2021
Column | Sorry, Coach Bielema, but I’m betting on the jockey

Column | Sorry, Coach Bielema, but I’m betting on the jockey

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • October 21, 2021
Bret Bielema stands on the sidelines during a football game against Charlotte on Oct. 2. Bielema has great facilities to use to improve the team as he sees he has a long road ahead of him.

Column | Six wins is a low bar because Illini football is already in that area

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • October 14, 2021
Senior Kweisi Kenyatte celebrates scoring during a match against Minnesota April 4. Kenyatte came to Illinois to get bigger opportunities than what was being offered beforehand.

Kenyatte, Dancer share homestate bond amid full Illinois men’s tennis season

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • October 10, 2021
Coach Bret Bielema smiles as he talks to the news about the result of Oct. 2 football game against Charlotte. Columnist Carson Gourdie shares his thoughts on the outcome of this Saturday's football game.

Column | Credibility of Bielema, Illinois football will skyrocket with win over Wisconsin

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • October 7, 2021
Coach Ryan Walters talks to the headset as a football game takes place. Ryan Walters looks to shape and build a successful defense as he works as the defensive coordinator.

Column | Illini football needs Walters in program’s blueprint to contend in Big Ten

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • September 30, 2021

Illini women’s tennis looks to improve on .500 season

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • September 24, 2021
Quarterback Brandon Peters goes to shake the hand of Coach Bret Bielema before their game against Maryland Sept.17. Brandon Peters past game performance is giving the team a questionable look into how the rest of the season will go.

Column | Brandon Peters isn’t in Illinois’ best interest

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • September 22, 2021
Bret Bielema walks onto the field during the footballs game against UTSA on Sept. 4. Illinois's football team works on getting into a groove to play with this season.

Column | Why can’t Illinois replicate Indiana’s blueprint?

By Carson Gourdie, Sttaff Writer • September 16, 2021
Senior Crystal Wang hits the golf ball during a round of golf on May 12. Crystal Wang was the only one to play last season during COVID-19.

Illini women’s golf combines familiar, fresh faces ahead of 2021 season

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • September 9, 2021
Senior Crystal Wang lines up where she needs to putt the ball. Senior Crystal Wang hopes to step-up her game with the upcoming season.

Three Illini named to Big Ten Women’s Golfers to Watch List

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • August 31, 2021
Bret Bielema talks to reporters during Big Ten Media Days at Lucas Oil Stadium on Thursday. Bielema says he has changed a lot since coaching Wisconsin 15 years ago.

Bielema aims to avoid replicating Badger blueprint in Champaign

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • July 24, 2021
Kofi Cockburn dunks during a game against Nebraska Feb. 25. Kofi Cockburn has a choice to make on whether he wants to stay at Illinois for another season or go to the NBA.

Column | Dear Kofi: Illinois will get you to the NBA

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • July 4, 2021
Junior Kofi Cockburn jumps to shoot a basket against a player from Loyola Chicago during the second round of the NCAA Tournament March 21. Illinois needs a top performing athlete to continue the basketball programs relevance.

Column | Illini need big man for conference relevance

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • June 1, 2021
Sophomore Olivia Howell poses for a photo after winning the 1500 meter race at the Big Ten Championships. Howell has excelled during this track and field season despite COVID-19 restrictions limiting the team last year.

Howell excels in second year after COVID-19 restrictions dampen freshman season

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • May 21, 2021
The Illinois baseball team meets on the pitcher’s mound to discuss strategy against Purdue April 18. The Illini are currently struggling with pitching.

Column | Pitching struggles negate one of Big Ten’s top lineups

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • May 6, 2021
Illinois assistant coach Orlando Antigua (left) talks to Kofi Cockburn during the game against Penn State Jan. 19 at State Farm Center. Antigua has been rumored to be leaving Champaign for Kentucky.

Column | Possibility of losing assistant coaches hints at program’s ceiling

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • April 29, 2021
Part of the Demirjian family along with other donors pose for a photo in front of the bleachers at Demirjian Park on Tuesday. The newly constructed park will serve as home to the Illini track & field and soccer programs.

Illini strengthen brand, reputation with Demirjian Park

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • April 11, 2021
Illini of the week: Jonathan Wells wins two jumping titles, uses father's death as motivation

Illini of the week: Jonathan Wells wins two jumping titles, uses father’s death as motivation

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • April 8, 2021
Graduate student Jonathan Wells leaps into a pit of sand while competing in the long jump on a sunny day. Wells won two of Illinois' three first-place finishes at the Big Ten North Florida Invitational in Jacksonville, Florida this weekend.

Jacksonville trip ends with three first-place finishes for Illini

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • April 3, 2021
Kofi Cockburn, Adam Miller, Jacob Grandison and Trent Frazier stand side by side during the NCAA tournament first round game against Drexel on Friday. The Illinois men’s basketball team has a chance to improve even more next season if the team plays cleaner basketball with fewer turnovers.

Column: Cleaner basketball will lead Illini to promised land

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • March 25, 2021
Trent Frazier runs past his defensive opponents during the Big Ten Tournament matchup against Rutgers on Friday at Lucas Oil Stadium. Frazier has grown to play both sides of the ball which has helped the Fighting Illini become a highly successful Big Ten team.

Changed role leaves Frazier in key position

By Carson Gourdie, Staff Writer • March 15, 2021
Redshirt senior Josh Imatorbhebhe jumps to catch a pass during the game against UConn on Sept. 7, 2019. Imatorbhebhe is now training for the NFL draft.

Illini provide confidence for Imatorbhebhe with NFL career on deck

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • March 9, 2021
Redshirt freshman Lucas Byrd lifts his opponent off the ground while competing at the Big Ten Championships on Sunday. Byrd placed 3rd in the 133-pounds weight class.

Byrd carries struggling Illini in Big Ten tournament

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • March 8, 2021
Senior Jake Hansen tackles the opposing ball carrier during the game against Northwestern on Dec. 12. Hansen has decided to return to the Illini for a sixth season.

Jake Hansen puts NFL dreams on hold, has unfinished business in Champaign

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • March 4, 2021
Junior Avrey Steiner fields a ball during competition. Steiner has been the most successful Illinois softball player so far this season, striking out only twice in 23 plate appearances in Florida.

Steiner keeps it simple as she leads Illini lineup

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • March 4, 2021
Members of the Illinois softball team gather at the mound to talk strategy during competition. The team won out in both games against Rutgers during a double-header on Friday.

Illini offense awakens in sweep over Rutgers

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • February 26, 2021
Junior Avrey Steiner hits the ball during the Orange & Blue World Series on Oct. 25. The Illini will begin their 2021 season playing against multiple opponents in Florida this weekend.

Illinois needs aggressive hitting in Florida

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • February 25, 2021
Former Illini running back Reggie Corbin rushes the ball during a game against Wisconsin at Memorial Stadium on Oct. 19, 2019. Corbin signed a deal with the BC Lions in Canada to continue his playing career.

Reggie Corbin looks to jump-start football career in Canada

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • February 22, 2021
Illinois head coach Tyra Perry smiles as she walks past the Illinois dugout during the game against Northwestern at Eichelberger Field on Mar. 28, 2018. Perry is excited for her team to begin play soon.

Illini to kick off All-Big Ten schedule in Florida bubble

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • February 18, 2021
New Illinois head football coach Bret Bielema receives a personalized jersey from Josh Whitman on Dec. 22. Bielema plans to recruit future players from Illinois to increase chances of team success.

Bielema plans on increased state, transfer portal presence

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • February 15, 2021
Junior Lucy Lux-Rulon competes in the long jump event during the Illini B1G Multi-Meet on Jan. 30. The Illinois track team finished the regular season on Saturday.

Familiar faces lead the Illini in season finale

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • February 13, 2021
Director of football recruiting Patrick Embleton poses for a professional headshot. Embleton has been on the football team staff for over a decade.

Embleton finds job security in uncertain profession under Bielema

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • February 10, 2021
Sophomore Alexander Babbington competes in a running event during the Illini B1G Multi-Meet on Jan. 30.

Illini dominate 800m dash, long toss in Nebraska

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • February 6, 2021
Redshirt senior Jon Davis competes in a cross country race. Davis recently placed second in the Big Ten Championship and made significant gains in the stock market.

Illini of the Week: Davis makes gains on field, stock market

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • February 4, 2021
Sophomore Alexander Babbington competes in the shotput event during the Heptathlon at the meet at the Armory on Friday.

Illini women shine in Big Ten title with 3rd place finish

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • January 30, 2021
Football head coach Bret Bielema speaks to the media during his frist press conference since his hiring on Wednesday. Bielema will focus on recruiting players from Illinois and restructuring the team in general.

Commitment, family will help lead Bielema in recruiting

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • January 29, 2021
Quarterback Brandon Peters looks to pass during the game against Northwestern on Dec. 12 at Ryan Field. Illinois will hope to improve in the offseason under Bret Bielema and his new staff.

Illinois, Bielema look to improve in Way-Too-Early Big Ten rankings

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • January 28, 2021
Aman Thornton poses for a headshot. Thornton took home first place in the 600-meter premier at the Larry Wieczorek Invitational this weekend.

Illini finish strong in Iowa, came close to more success

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • January 23, 2021
Roderick Perry tackles the opposing ball carrier during the game against Iowa on Dec. 5. Perry is signing with the Cleveland Browns as undrafted free agent.

Perry bets on NFL future with return to Bielema

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • January 21, 2021
Senior defensive end Owen Carney (99) moves to tackle the opposing ball carrier during the game against Minnesota on Nov. 7.

Bielema provides instant credibilty to struggling program

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • January 20, 2021
Sophomore Olivia Howell competes in a relay race during a meet. Howell broke the Illinois record for fastest women's 1000m during the tri-meet against Wisconsin and Northwestern on Saturday.

Illini win eight events amid Wisconsin road trip

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • January 16, 2021
J-Naya Ephraim drives to the basketball during Illinois' game at Michigan Sunday. The Illini fell 70-50

Shooting woes slow down Illini in 70-50 loss to Michigan

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • January 10, 2021
Ryan Walters prepares to throw a football. Walters will be joining the Illinois football team as Defensive Coordinator

Ryan Walters plans to adapt Illini defense for success, not system

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • January 9, 2021
Cory Patterson meets with media after being hired on Jan. 26, 2018. Bret Bielema elected to keep Patterson on his staff as the running backs coach.

Bielema elects to keep St. Louis native Cory Patterson on staff

By Carson Gourdie, Assistant Sports Editor • January 5, 2021
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