Illinois Basketball Up 6 Spots in Recent AP Poll

Following an 84–65 win over Colgate and a tone-setting 81–77 upset of (at the time) No. 11 Texas Tech, the Illinois Basketball program continues to turn heads nationally and climb their way up the AP Poll.

In the latest rankings, Brad Underwood’s group jumped six spots, breaking into the top-10 at No. 8.

No. 8 pic.twitter.com/89ajlkkP7Y

— Illinois Men’s Basketball (@IlliniMBB) November 17, 2025

Of course, plenty of opportunities remain ahead on the Illini’s brutal non-conference schedule for Illinois to solidify its top-10 position.

The Illini now turn their attention to No. 11 Alabama, who heads to the United Center on Wednesday for a primetime showdown in Chicago. At 2-1, Nate Oats’ highly talented Crimson Tide enters the matchup looking to rebound from an 87–80 loss to top-ranked Purdue, marking their second straight battle with a Big Ten contender. For Illinois, it’s yet another opportunity to capitalize on one of the nation’s toughest non-conference slates and build upon the Illini’s already formidable resume.

Despite early injuries and mixed rotations, Underwood’s crew has continued to find ways to win—and win big. Another marquee victory would not only extend their early-season momentum but also carry significant weight come March, when results from matchups like these often shape seeding and tournament paths.

The stakes will be high in the Windy City. Can Illinois Basketball secure another statement win and keep this hot start rolling?

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