Illinois Hosts UCLA in Anticipated Basketball Rematch

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — The Illinois Fighting Illini are set to host the UCLA Bruins on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at the State Farm Center in a highly anticipated rematch. This will be UCLA’s first visit to Champaign since their meeting in 1964, where Illinois triumphed with a 110-83 victory.

The game also marks a special occasion, as Illinois will raise the No. 21 jersey banner for two-time consensus All-American Kofi Cockburn during a halftime ceremony as part of their Honored Jersey program. The significance of this event is underscored by the team’s strong performance and history, with Illinois boasting an all-time record of 4-6 against UCLA, having won their last game against the Bruins in Las Vegas in 2022.

Illinois recently secured their eighth consecutive victory against Minnesota, dominating the game with a score of 95-74. Key players in that matchup included Will Riley, who led with 27 points, along with Kasparas Jakucionis and Tomislav Ivisic contributing 24 and 18 points, respectively. This strong roster performance will be critical as they face a resilient UCLA team.

“The most important thing about today was Tomi,” Illinois head coach Brad Underwood said, referring to Ivisic, who has been crucial in both scoring and rebounding since recovering from an injury. “His ankle is as dark as a cabernet grape, but we knew he was going to play because he told us. It’s all about him needing to play because he knows his teammates need him.”

In their previous match, Illinois overcame a shaky start against Minnesota, who initially led 16-11. However, a quick 9-0 run fueled by Riley and Ivisic put Illinois in command, and they maintained this lead throughout the game. This resilience will be tested against UCLA, a team known for its skilled players and strategic play.

The upcoming game will also serve as a testament to Illinois’ reliable home-court advantage, where they have historically performed well. Illinois boasts a 2-1 record against UCLA at home, with their last win in Champaign being in 1964.

Beyond the matchup itself, this game holds implications for both teams as they seek to solidify their standings leading up to the Big Ten and NCAA tournaments. Illinois, currently ranked No. 19, is looking to keep its winning streak alive, while UCLA is aiming to bounce back from a tough season.

Fans can tune in to watch the game live on Peacock or listen via the Busey Bank Illini Sports Network, as both teams look to make a statement on the court.