UNC to face Illinois in non-conference basketball matchup in Nashville

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 25, 2026, 4:51 PM

Last updated Jun 25, 2026

UNC to face Illinois in non-conference basketball matchup in Nashville
Summary

The North Carolina Tar Heels will play the Illinois Fighting Illini on January 30, 2027, at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. This game marks the first meeting between the two programs since 2010, with each team having won four times in their previous eight encounters. North Carolina, under new head coach Michael Malone, is looking to make a statement after the transition from Hubert Davis. Illinois enters the matchup following a successful run to the 2026 Final Four and is expected to be a top contender in the Big Ten for the upcoming season.

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By the Numbers
  • UNC and Illinois will meet on January 30, 2027.
  • The game will take place at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.
  • This is the first meeting between the teams since 2010.
  • UNC is transitioning to head coach Michael Malone this season.
  • Illinois expects to be a top-five team in the Big Ten.
Latest Updates
  • 4:51 PMYahoo SportsUNC, Illinois set non-conference showdown
What they're saying
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The UNC basketball program will face off against Illinois in a non-conference showdown.

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