Illinois basketball ranked sixth in 2025 preseason KenPom rankings

Illinois basketball is currently the sixth-ranked team in the first edition of this season’s KenPom rankings. The KenPom rankings are an analytics-driven site that uses metrics such as Offensive efficiency, Defensive efficiency, and more to help fans have an idea of where their team sits compared to the rest of the country. Since Brad Underwood arrived in Champaign, the Illini have been an analytics-driven program. In fact, KenPom did a version of its rankings for coaches, and Brad Underwood was ranked 11th. On top of that, Underwood was the highest-ranked coach on KenPom in the entire Big Ten Conference. 

Brad Underwood has exceptionally adapted to the fluid landscape of College basketball, both on and off the court. He has always been open to changing up his schemes on offense and defense to keep the Illini a consistent competitor.

In terms of other major rankings that were released, the Illini sit at 17th in the AP Poll. They play an exhibition on October 19th vs the Illinois State Redbirds and will also play a closed-door scrimmage vs the Florida Gators. The Illini will then regroup to open their season on November 3rd vs the Jackson State Tigers.

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