Illinois gets an unexpected NCAA Tournament rematch with a familiar Big Ten rival

No. 3 Illinois hosts Penn in a rematch of the 2026 NCAA Tournament, with Fran McCaffery returning to Big Ten territory against Brad Underwood.

State Rep. Brandun Schweizer Concedes 104th District Election to Mary Catherine Roberson; Issues Statement

DANVILLE, IL — State Representative Brandun Schweizer (R-Danville) issued the following statement regarding the results of the November 3 general election:. “First and foremost, I want to give thanks to the Lord. We praise Him in times of joy, and we must also praise Him in times of disappointment and defeat. Even when we don’t understand His plan, we can trust that He has one. I am grateful for the opportunities He has given me and trust Him with whatever comes next.

Illinois has scored 232 points in two games, and the scariest part might be its depth

Illinois scored 112 points against Penn after putting up 120 in its opener. Here's why the Fighting Illini's balanced offense deserves national attention.

Where To Buy Toys in Champaign-Urbana

Shopping small and local for children’s toys, games and gifts has never been easier. Whether shopping for holidays, birthdays or just a special gift for a special little one, there are plenty of ways to support local businesses when shopping for toys in Champaign-Urbana. We’ve compiled a list of...

MIOpera stages Handel’s 'Semele' for opera fans in two Twin Cities

A larger-than-life opera is taking shape in Normal. MIOpera will be back on stage Saturday after a hosting a series of concerts that featured Black stories and voices earlier this year. For its next show, Semele by 17th century German-British composer George Frideric Handel, the Twin Cities-based opera company is collaborating with the Baroque Artists of Champaign-Urbana [BACH] for the first time.

Penn's Lucas Lueth throws down POSTERIZING dunk over Zvonimir Ivišić, cutting into Illinois' lead

Illinois cancels two college football games against Mizzou

The Illinois Fighting Illini have canceled two games college football games scheduled against the Missouri Tigers in the 2027 and 2028 seasons.

BACH to be joined by MIOpera to celebrate 30th season

The Baroque Artists of Champaign Urbana will premiere a special performance this weekend in both Normal and Urbana. BACH will be joined by Bloomington-Normal’s MIOpera, Central Illinois’ premiere professional opera company, for Handel’s Semele. The performances will feature dramatic costumes, sets, and solos to accompany the themes of the witty but tragic tale. Attendees can stay after the show to enjoy a reception.

Kyle’s Corner in Savoy closing its doors

SAVOY, Ill. (WCIA) — In Savoy, a staple Greek spot will be closing its doors for the the last time later this month. Kyle’s Corner has been open since March, and now, owner Kyle Kirchhoefer said he’s moving in a new direction, but he said this isn’t a failure. He said he’s making the choice […]

The Weekender: November 6-8

Feel the heat with spicy pork, San Maru Korean restaurant, 11 a.m. to 2:30 & 3 to 8:30 p.m., $18. Make this Friday a hot one with spicy pork bulgogi at San Maru Korean restaurant. Chef Yoon makes fantastic pork bulgogi with ribbons of unctuous rendered fat and the veggies that pick up a delicious stinging spiciness. I also recommend the beef bulgogi and chicken wings, but check out Grace’s full review for more about the food. (AB)

Joshua Crockett makes history in McLean County, promises changes to clerk’s office

MCLEAN COUNTY (25News Now) - Joshua Crockett is preparing to take over as McLean County Clerk after a historic Election Day victory, becoming the first Democrat elected to a countywide office in 44 years. Crockett defeated incumbent Republican Kathy Michael in Tuesday’s midterm election, marking a political shift in a...

Illinois’ freshmen stars will have to step up following injuries

Missing players mean increased opportunity for several Illini. The injury bug has hit Illinois early this season. After losing David Mirkovic over the summer with a foot injury and Jake Davis in the first game of the season with a shoulder injury, the Illini look to be without key contributors for an extended period of time.

McLean County voters deny tax increases, funding for Dale Township firefighters

McLean County voters rejected three ballot questions that sought to raise taxes to prevent cutbacks on staffing in the Dale Township Fire Protection District. In Tuesday’s midterm election, unofficial results showed all three ballots referendums were rejected by a margin of 47 to 120 votes, or an average of 56.81%.

Penn Did Not Cover the +30.5 Against Illinois

Brutal game to start the season for the Quakers, but credit where it’s due because they battled the #3 team in the country for the first 10 minutes. Fran had his guys ready to play. This was a one-point game about halfway through the first period, after an Ethan Lin three pointer, then Illinois put their foot on the gas and went on a big run and never looked back.