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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
James Hoeck

James Hoeck, Photo Editor

I am James Hoeck, a senior in photography with a minor in media. I have been a part of Illini Media for over three years starting back in fall 2021. I hold the position of photo editor here at The Daily Illini overseeing our photo department. I also work as photo editor and editor-in-chief for Illini Media’s yearbook, The Illio. There is a good chance you will see me out and about on campus taking photos! If you want to check out more of my work, visit my linked socials and portfolio website. For inquiries, contact me at my attached email.

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[Photo] 08.02.23_MattMaltese_J.Hoeck

Aug 3, 2023
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[Photo] 04.23.23_SpringJam

Apr 24, 2023
The Africa Middle East exhibit the Spurlock Museum located at 600 South Gregory Street, Urbana.

[Photo] Best places on campus to bring your parents

By Kiran Bond, A. Oishii Basu and Maaike Niekerk • May 22, 2023
The Daily Illini's 2023 editorial board on the Main Quad in front of Foellinger Auditorium on May 5.

[Photo] Illini Media Company: A place for students in media to thrive

By Lika Lezhava and Lisa Chasanov • May 19, 2023
The Kid LAROI jumps around the State Farm Center Stage as he opens his set on May 3.

[Photo] The Kid LAROI infuses State Farm Center with insane energy

By Caroline Sweeney, Staff Writer • May 4, 2023
The CU community and Illini family come to the Alice Campbell Alumni Center to watch the fountain kick off the homecoming week as Jen Dillavou, the president of the University of Illinois Alumni Association gives a speech during a rainy day on Oct. 2, 2021.

[Photo] President of University of Illinois Alumni Association dies of cancer

By Ella Narag, News Editor • May 1, 2023
#93 Defensive line Calvin Avery pushes off off Michigan State on Nov. 5 during Dads Day. Avery signed with the Vikings during the NFL Draft on Saturday as a undrafted free agent.

[Photo] Former Illinois defensive tackle Calvin Avery signs with Minnesota Vikings as undrafted free agent

By Adam Rosen and Conor Blount • Apr 29, 2023
Quarter back Tommy Devito throws the ball back-and-forth prior to the second half of Nov. 5's game against Michigan State. Devito was drafted on Saturday to play for his home state's New York Giants.

[Photo] Former Illinois quarterback Tommy DeVito signs with home state New York Giants

By Adam Rosen, Assistant Sports Editor • Apr 29, 2023
Outside linebacker Alec Bryan yells during a game against Purdue on Nov. 12 as his teammates Shawn Miller, wide receiver and defensive back Devon Witherspoon stand behind him. With the upcoming 2023 NFL draft it is expected for Illini athletes such as Witherspoon to be picked to play in the NFL.

[Photo] Illinois football set to be well-represented at 2023 NFL draft

By Adam Rosen and Conor Blount • Apr 26, 2023
Running back Chase Brown plays against Chattanooga during hall of fame weekend on Sept. 22. Brown was selected during the NFL draft on Saturday to join the Cincinnati Bengals in fifth round picks.

[Photo] Former Illini running back Chase Brown headed to Cincinnati in 5th round

By Conor Blount and Adam Rosen • Apr 29, 2023
Senior defensive back Sydney Brown on the field during his senior day game against Purdue on Nov. 11. Brown was selected to play for the Eagles during the NFL draft on Friday.

[Photo] Philadelphia Eagles select former Illini Sydney Brown with 66th pick in 2023 NFL draft

By Adam Rosen, Assistant Sports Editor • Apr 28, 2023
Senior defensive back Jartavius Martin locks eyes with his Michigan State opponent during the Dads day game on Nov. 5. Martin was drafted to the Washing Commanders during the second round of NFL drafts on Friday.

[Photo] Former Illinois football star Quan Martin selected in second round by Washington Commanders

By Adam Rosen and Conor Blount • Apr 28, 2023
OTNES performs at new Champaign diner and music venue The Space on Sunday.

[Photo] OTNES, Emily the Band bring indie pop to new Champaign music venue

By Maaike Niekerk, Staff Writer • Apr 25, 2023
During his performance of "Fire Burning," Sean Kingston brought multiple students on the stage.

Gallery | Sean Kingston performs at Spring Jam 2023

By James Hoeck, Angel Saldivar and Michael Chew • Apr 25, 2023
All-around senior Mia Takekawa performs on the balance beam going up against Michigan on Feb. 27. Takekawa looks back on her career as an athlete as her senior year comes to its end.

[Photo] Takekawa stays balanced on, off beam

By Rachel Oh, Staff Writer • Apr 26, 2023
Senior Jess Streepy starts her attempt at the pole vault on Apr. 9, 2022 during the Illini Classic. No. 9 ranking track and field showed of a great performance at the Bryan Clay Invitational this weekend with a few athletes even breaking their personal records.

[Photo] Illini track & field continues strong outdoor season in West Coast competitions

By Said Nonoal, Staff Writer • Apr 18, 2023
Senior guard Terrence Shannon Jr. during a time out in midst of a game against Northwestern on Feb. 23. On Wednesday, Shannon announced that he would return to Champaign for one more season.

[Photo] Shannon declares for 2023 NBA draft following senior season at Illinois

By James Kim, Sports Editor • Apr 12, 2023
Head Coach Brad Underwood observes the court during the first half of a game against Northwestern on Feb. 23. SIU junior forward Marcus Domask will be announced via twitter that he will be joining Underwood and the rest of the Illini team for this upcoming season.

[Photo] SIU transfer Marcus Domask commits to Illinois basketball

By Shawn Sloan and Ben Fader • Apr 10, 2023
Super Smash Bros. Esport competitors practice during a break period during the first day of the invitational on Friday afternoon.

[Photo] Illini Esports Invitational gets ready to game this weekend

By Drew Friberg, Staff Writer • Mar 31, 2023
Forward Coleman Hawkins exits the court during the last home game of the season on Mar. 2. Hawkins officially made his decision to return to Illinois on Wednesday, after withdrawing from the NBA Draft.

[Photo] Coleman Hawkins declares for 2023 NBA draft following 3-year career at Illinois

By James Kim, Sports Editor • Mar 28, 2023
orward Coleman Hawkins goes for a dunk during the first half of the Michigan game on Mar. 2. The Illini faced many challenges during this season, and despite solid performances, they met an early exit in the NCAA tournament.

[Photo] ‘A lot of ups and downs’: Illinois men’s basketball experiences 2022-23 season of early highs, late struggles

By James Kim, Sports Editor • Mar 29, 2023
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.

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

By James Kim and Carson Gourdie • Mar 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.

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

By James Kim, Drew Friberg and Carson Gourdie • Mar 3, 2023
Guard Terrance Shannon Jr. blocks Northwestern's guard player Matthew Nicholson during the second half of Thursday night's game. Columnist Theodore Gary writes on missing out on watching the Illini face off against Northwestern.

[Photo] Column | I couldn’t watch the Northwestern game…

By Theo Gary, Staff Writer • Feb 28, 2023
Guard Jada Peebles and Forward/Center Geovana Lopes during their senior night after their last home game on Wednesday. The Illini ended of their last game on Sunday against Rutgers.

[Photo] Illinois women’s basketball closes regular season on high note with dominant win at Rutgers

By Conor Blount, Assistant Sports Editor • Feb 26, 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.

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

By Carson Gourdie and Adam Rosen • Feb 26, 2023
Forward Coleman Hawkins after a missed shot by the Illini during the first half of Thursday night's game against Northwestern. Struggling with offense, the Illini fell to Ohio State on Sunday.

[Photo] Illinois men’s basketball unable to overtake Ohio State, falls 72–60

By Conor Blount, Assistant Sports Editor • Feb 26, 2023
Guard Jayden Epps makes a pass to his team in a attempt to score against Northwestern during the first half of last night's game. During the game against Northwestern Epps did not play an effective role to the defeat of the team on Thursday.

[Photo] DI Sports podcast: Shannon the key to success in March

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • Feb 24, 2023
Guard Terrance Shannon Jr. walks the court during the start of the second half of the game against Northwestern last evening. After an earlier injury leaving Shannon away from the court for the past two matches, Shannon came back swinging to defeat Northwestern this Thursday.

[Photo] Shannon catapults Illinois men’s basketball past No. 21 Northwestern

By James Kim, Assistant Sports Editor • Feb 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.

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

By James Kim, Drew Friberg and Carson Gourdie • Feb 24, 2023
Guard Terrance Shannon Jr. rushes to recover the ball after a missed shot by Northwestern during the second half. During tonight's head-to-head game Shannon was able to pull through during the second half to recover the match and win.

[Photo] Illinois overcomes 18-point deficit to knock off No. 21 Northwestern

By Drew Friberg, Sports Editor • Feb 23, 2023
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[Photo] Column | Illinois needs a real rival, Northwestern can’t compete

By Theo Gary, Staff Writer • Feb 22, 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.

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

By James Kim, Carson Gourdie and Theo Gary • Feb 21, 2023
Guard/Forward Matthey Mayer slips through Minnesota's defense around the start of the second half of tonight's game. Mayer led the Illini with constant scores against Minnesota bouncing back from the defeat by Indiana on Saturday for the Illini.

[Photo] Illinois men’s basketball bounces back in Champaign with 78-69 victory over Minnesota

By James Kim, Assistant Sports Editor • Feb 20, 2023
Students, friends and family walk out of Weston Hall during a sunny Sunday afternoon. Columnist Megan Harding writes on the benefits that makes university housing the top choice to live in on campus.

[Photo] Opinion | On-campus living deserves a revamp

By Megan Harding, Assistant Opinions Editor • Feb 20, 2023
Evening view on Sunday of the Midtown Plaza apartment building alongside Boneyard Creek. Columnist Daniel Kibler writes on the benefits of off-campus living as compared to university living.

[Photo] Opinion | Off-campus housing puts dorms to shame

By Dan Kibler, Columnist • Feb 21, 2023
New York City Band Bandits on the Run perform an encore while walking across the bar at Rose Bowl Tavern on Feb. 11.

[Photo] ‘Family’ band Bandits on the Run makes magic at Rose Bowl

By Kylie Corral, buzz Editor • Feb 13, 2023
Guard Genesis Bryant tries to get past Indiana's defense on Wednesday. Bryant led the team during Sunday's game against Northwestern resulting in a win for the Illini.

[Photo] No. 21 Illinois women’s basketball gets back on track with win at Northwestern

By Conor Blount, Assistant Sports Editor • Jan 22, 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.

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

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • Jan 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.

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

By Drew Friberg, James Kim and Carson Gourdie • Jan 19, 2023
Head coach Bret Bielema speaks to referee during game against Virginia on Sept. 10. Bielema speaks on the Illini's defensive coordinator position and Ryan Walters who is set to transfer from the Illini as announced on Dec. 13.

[Photo] Massive changes for Illinois football defensive staff as Walters, Kane leave for Purdue, Henry elevated to coordinator

By Jonathan Alday, Assistant Sports Editor • Dec 22, 2022
Illinois head football coach Bret Bielema on the sideline during Illinois' 2022 game against Virginia.

[Photo] Illinois head football coach Bret Bielema signs contract extension through 2028

By Jonathan Alday, Assistant Sports Editor • Dec 20, 2022
University students and local community members gather at the Champaign-Urbana Pride Fest hosted on Oct. 1. On Thursday, Congress passed a bill to protect same-sex and interracial marriages.

[Photo] House of Representatives passes same-sex, interracial marriage protection act

By Lika Lezhava, Assistant News Editor • Dec 8, 2022
Outside hitter/right side Jessica Nunge sends the ball to the opposing team during homecoming week on Oct. 3, 2021. Nunge and the rest of the Illini celebrate senior weekend and two victories continuing the team's winning streak.

[Photo] Illinois volleyball triumphs on senior weekend with two big wins

By Adam Rosen, Staff Writer • Nov 20, 2022
Guard Terrance Shannon Jr. pushes through EIU's defense during last Monday's game. The Illini achieve another victory during Monday night's match against Monmouth with a score of 103-65.

[Photo] No. 19 Illinois men’s basketball blows out Monmouth for third straight victory

By Drew Friberg, Sports Editor • Nov 14, 2022
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[Photo] Best tattoo shop: No Regrets Tattoos

By Cecilia Milmoe, Features Editor • Nov 4, 2022
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[Photo] Best kept secret: Walnut Street Tea Company

By Heather Robinson, Editor-in-Chief • Nov 5, 2022
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[Photo] Best restaurant to take your parents: Black Dog

By Drew Friberg, Sports Editor • Nov 4, 2022
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[Photo] Best drunk food: Burrito King Mexican Grill

By Alexis Ramirez, Staff Writer • Nov 5, 2022
Political campaign signs placed outside of the entrance of FAR, the least-crowded polling location, on Nov. 8.

[Photo] Florida Avenue Residence Halls: The least crowded polling place on campus

By Layli Nazarova, Staff Writer • Nov 8, 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.

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

By Drew Friberg, Carson Gourdie and James Kim • Nov 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.

[Photo] Takeaways from night one of Illinois men’s basketball season

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • Nov 8, 2022
Guard Terrence Shannon Jr. attempts to get past the opposing team during tonight's match. Shannon made his premiere for the Illini with a performance that played a big hand to the team's 87-57 victory.

[Photo] Illinois men’s basketball steamrolls Eastern Illinois 87-57 in season opener

By Drew Friberg, Sports Editor • Nov 7, 2022
FAA freshman Trey McCallister and Sachi Tillu, freshman in LAS prepare pumpkins to be smashed at Red Herring on Sunday. The Student for Environmental Concern's held its first pumpkin smashing event supported by SCARCE.

[Photo] SECS hosts sustainable pumpkin smashing event

By Alyssa Shih, Contributing writer • Nov 7, 2022
Emily the Band lead singer Emily Antonacci sings at the Rose Bowl Tavern while playing her ukulele alongside the rest of Emily the Band on Friday.

[Photo] emily the band cultivates safe, queer space in music

By Kaitlyn Devitt, Contributing Writer • Oct 18, 2022
Bassist player for Neon Trees performs for the C-U community at the State Farm Center on Wednesday.

Gallery | University celebrates 2022 Homecoming Week

By Sydney Laput, Jacob Slabosz, James Hoeck, Logan Hodson and Bekah Douglas • Oct 16, 2022
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[Photo] Neon Trees concert leaves everybody talking

By Faith Allendorf, Managing Editor for Reporting • Oct 14, 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.

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

By Carson Gourdie, Sports Video Editor • Oct 12, 2022
Demonstrators assemble at the front of the Champaign County Courthouse after a march for women's rights on Sunday.

[Photo] C-U holds sixth annual Women’s March

By Lisa Chasanov, Contributing Writer • Oct 3, 2022
Photography Professor Rachel Fein-Smolinki prepares ARTS 265 students to create contact sheets in the School of Art & Design's darkroom facility on Sept. 15. The University made public on Sept. 8 that $50 million will be put forward to hiring new faculty members, expecting to hire around 150-200 new employees with the plan.

[Photo] UI to spend $50 million hiring new faculty

By Saaniya Makandar, Contributing Writer • Oct 5, 2022
Protestors come together at the front of the Champaign Courthouse after a march for women’s rights from Alma Matter on Sunday. 100 days after the Dobbs v. Women's Health Organization outcome CU-community protest from Alma to the Courthouse their voices of opposition towards the decision.

[Photo] 100 days after Dobbs: C-U Women’s March amplifies community voices

By Yuzhu Liu and Lisa Chasanov • Oct 4, 2022
CJ Brown, also known as Karma Carrington, performs to music during Uniting Pride's drag show at Canopy Club on Thursday. Brown opened up about drag as well as how it has assisted towards them experimenting with their gender identity and stage performance.

[Photo] Uniting Pride hosts Canopy Club’s first drag, burlesque show

By Jessie Wang, Contributing Writer • Oct 3, 2022
A pride parade festival member hands out leighs to the community during the pride parade on Saturday.

[Photo] CU Pride Fest empowers LGBTQ+ community

By Lillie Salas, Contributing Writer • Oct 1, 2022
Journalist Eli Murray sits next to Charles Ledford, associate professor of journalism, as he answers questions during a Q&A in the ACES Funk Library on Thursday. Earlier this year Murray won a Pulitzer Prize for Investigative Journalism.

[Photo] Pulitzer-winning alum Eli Murray returns to campus for Q&A

By Kiran Bond, Staff Writer • Sep 15, 2022
Students in Block I use cards to create a massive sign displaying "2022" during the first home game against Wyoming on Saturday.

Gallery | Illinois football welcomes fans back for 2022 season

By Sydney Laput and James Hoeck • Aug 29, 2022
Senior outside hitter Jessica Nunge elevates the ball to serve against Wisconsin during the homecoming match on Oct. 3. Despite Illini's match performance Nunge managed to pull 15 kills against Ole Miss leading to the team's victory on Sunday.

[Photo] Illinois volleyball splits matches in season opening tournament

By Drew Friberg, Sports Editor • Aug 28, 2022
Scott Currid, member of the Service Employees International Union Local 73, holds a flyers during the SEIU protest in front of the Ikenberry Commons on April 29.

[Photo] UI service workers reach tentative agreement with UI

By Willie Cui, News Editor • Aug 23, 2022
Defender Kendra Pasquale runs to intercept the ball from Rutgers on Oct. 23. Pasquale pulled a performance leading to a 2-0 victory for the Illini with the support of her team, fans, and family during the senior day match on Sunday.

[Photo] Illinois soccer shines against Toledo during senior day showdown

By James Kim, Assistant Sports Editor • Aug 22, 2022
Defensive Aleah Treiterer attempts to keep the ball away from Rutgers on Oct. 23. Despite the disappointing performance last season for the Illini, this season shines hope for a better turn out with the team's new faces and performance during the recent August exhibition matches.

[Photo] Finding Big Ten success remains looming question for Illinois soccer in 2022

By James Kim, Assistant Sports Editor • Aug 12, 2022
Graduate student runner Rebecca Craddock runs during the Illini Classic on April 9. A handful of smaller sports do not receive as much traction from fans in comparison to football and basketball when it comes to small crowds and less social media attention.

[Photo] Pack the stands of underappreciated sports

By Drew Friberg, Sports Editor • Jul 13, 2022
Illinois Soccer athletes approach the stands after a senior day match against Rutgers on October 23. The Illini soccer team welcomes eight new athletes to the team for the anticipated Fall 2022 season.

[Photo] Illinois soccer signs eight talented recruits in preparation for 2022 regular season

By James Kim, Assistant Sports Editor • Jun 11, 2022
Distance Runner Halle Hill pushes forward to maintain position at the front of the race during the track Illini Classic on April 9. Hill was able to participate in the NCAA postseason regional as a freshman within the 1500m but was unable to place for finals.

[Photo] Two Illini punch their ticket to the NCAA Championships after Illinois track & field competes at regional meet

By Ben Fader, Staff Writer • May 29, 2022
Members of the Local 73 of the Service Employees International Union strike outside of the Ikenberry Commons on April 29. More than 50% of the Local 73 group has voted to approve a strike authorization due to no progression being made with negotiations with the University.

[Photo] UI service workers’ union votes to authorize strike over stalled contract negotiations

By Willie Cui, News Editor • May 24, 2022
The Illinois women's gymnastics team cheers from the sides during the floor exercise routines on March 4. The Illini scored 5-3 for the the season overall.

[Photo] ‘In the right place to take that next step’: 2021–22 Illinois women’s gymnastics season provides promise for future of program

By Jonathan Alday, Assistant Sports Editor • May 19, 2022
Vanessa Blas, junior in Engineering, and Selena Alena, junior in Media, are Undergraduate Library student assistants, and are two of the last people to work at the UGL as operations at the library close on Friday.

[Photo] Books, breaks left behind: Last students in UGL share thoughts

By Rebecca Oriza, Staff Writer • May 17, 2022
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