Illinois Basketball Set To Face Tennessee at a Neutral Site

News: Illinois Basketball has seemingly finalized a roster (as finalized as it gets in today’s world of college athletics) that appears to be locked and loaded—and now, a schedule that’s adding some early-season beef.

According to Jon Rothstein, Brad Underwood and the Fighting Illini are locked in for a two-year series extension with Rick Barnes and the Tennessee Volunteers.

However, adding a twist to the series, the two powerhouses will face off at neutral sites over the next two seasons. This year, the Illini will meet their SEC opponent on December 6th at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. In 2026, Underwood and crew will face the Vols in Chicago at the United Center.

NEWS: Tennessee and Illinois are finalizing an agreement to meet on December 6th at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, according to multiple sources.

There will be a return game at the United Center in Chicago at a later date, which is currently TBD.https://t.co/aHqXsCntkF

— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) May 15, 2025

Thoughts: Illinois Basketball to Face Tennessee In Nashville on 12/6

Illinois Basketball fans likely haven’t forgotten last season’s heartbreaking 66-64 loss, where the Volunteers snatched away a buzzer-beater win at home. Despite a gritty performance and 22 points from Kasparas Jakucionis, the Illini shot just 29% from the field, and after a disheveled second half, the Illini came up just short on the road.

It was a tough loss, but after dropping two straight to the Vols, that should add some extra juice to this year’s rematch.

This time around, the stage is Bridgestone Arena in Nashville—a location that should feel almost like a true neutral site game. Music City is a favorite weekend getaway for folks in the Land of Lincoln, and with a manageable drive. Illini fans should travel well, and the atmosphere will be packed and electric.

According to early projections from Bart Torvik, this shapes up as a top-15 showdown. The Vols, however, will look quite different, as Rick Barnes’ squad moves on without its top four scorers from last season.

Of course, after a slew of transfer and Euro additions, so will the Illini.

For both teams, it’s a marquee matchup and a big résumé opportunity. For Illinois, it’s a perfect early test—a chance to measure progress and set the tone with an experienced, talent-rich  (but new) roster.

Dec 14. 2024. Champaign, Illinois. USA. Illinois, Fighting Illini. Tre White (22). Drives to the basket during the second half against the Tennessee Volunteers. State Farm Center. Credit: Ron Johnson. Imagn Images.

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