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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

Tess Eken

Tess Eken, Assistant Sports Editor

Hi everyone! My name is Tess and I’m currently a junior studying communications with a minor in Spanish. I joined The Daily Illini because I wanted to combine my love for sports with my love for writing, so I get the best of both worlds here! Outside of journalism, I love baking and spending time with my friends and family. If you have any questions or just want to talk sports with me, feel free to email me using the button below. I-L-L!

Fans lift up junior quarterback Luke Altmyer in celebration after storming the field to celebrate a 23-17 win over Kansas on Sept. 7.

Best moments of the 2024-25 Illini football season

By Tess Eken, Assistant Sports Editor November 11, 2024
Wide receiver Pat Bryant leaps into the air and reaches for the sky as a pass comes hurling towards him over the opposing Purdue player's head in the Illinois v Purdue football game on Oct. 12. in Memorial Stadium.

Illinois football grades from road loss against No. 1 Oregon

By Tess Eken, Assistant Sports Editor October 29, 2024
Outside linebacker Seth Coleman's helmet lays on the field after taking a big hit during the Illinois v Purdue football game on Oct. 12. in Memorial Stadium

Illini can’t keep their Ducks in a row, fall on the road

By Tess Eken, Assistant Sports Editor October 26, 2024

100 years later, experts set to discuss Red Grange’s impact

By Tess Eken, Assistant Sports Editor October 15, 2024
The Illinois Fighting Illini walk around a football Wide receiver Malik Elzy leaps into the air and looks to the sky for the touchdown pass during the first football game of the 2024 season in Memorial Stadium on West Kirby Ave.

Illinois drops to No. 24 after loss against Penn State

By Tess Eken, Assistant Sports Editor October 1, 2024
Sophomore RB Kaden Feagin and Freshman TE Jake Furtney celebrate an Illinois touchdown against Central Michigan during Homecoming on Sept. 14.

All eyes on No. 19 Illinois in battle against No. 9 Penn State

By Tess Eken, Assistant Sports Editor September 28, 2024
Junior quarterback Luke Altmyer gets ready to snap the ball during the 2024 Homecoming game against Central Michigan on Sept. 14. The Illini would go on to win 30-9.

No. 24 Illinois begins Big Ten competition against No. 22 Nebraska

By Tess Eken, Assistant Sports Editor September 20, 2024
The Illinois Fighting Illini during the Illini Open at the Illinois Arboretum in Champaign on Sept. 1.

Illinois cross country laces up for Fighting Illini Big Ten Preview

By Tess Eken, Assistant Sports Editor September 13, 2024
Assistant coach Archie McDaniel stands in front of the Illinois football team before the first game of the 2024 season. It is coach McDaniel's first season as an Illinois coach.

Illinois football: Last season versus now

By Tess Eken, Assistant Sports Editor September 10, 2024
Photo Courtesy of Illini Athletics

Illinois football unveils helmet schedule for 2024 home games

By Tess Eken, Assistant Sports Editor August 28, 2024
Orange Krush gather together as the starting lineup is introduced during a senior night men's basketball game at the State Farm Center on March 5.

Orange Krush: More than just a student section

By Tess Eken, Assistant Sports Editor July 29, 2024
Offensive Lineman Andrew Dennis.

4-star recruit Dennis enters transfer portal

By Tess Eken, Assistant Sports Editor April 29, 2024
A hot bowl of ramen from Oozu Ramen Bar on Feb. 29. Oozu Ramen Bar is located at 601 S. Sixth St. and has been serving members of the C-U community for years.

Best of CU | Best Ramen: Oozu Ramen Bar

By Tess Eken, Staff Writer March 28, 2024
ILLordle: Play now