Illinois basketball non-conference schedule ranks fifth toughest nationally

Illinois basketball will face one of the toughest non-conference schedules for the 2026-27 season, ranked No. 5 in the nation by The Field of 68. Notable matchups include games against UConn in Chicago and Duke in Durham. This challenging lineup follows a previous season where Illinois' schedule was rated 12th toughest by KenPom. With five projected Quad 1 opponents and a significant matchup against Western Kentucky, Illinois aims for a strong non-conference record. A successful outcome of 10 wins against this competition would boost the Illini's position going into Big Ten play.

• 12:30 PMYahoo Sports — Illinois Basketball Ranks No. 5 in Toughest Non-Conference Schedules