SPORTS
Tied for Big Ten lead, Illinois hosts Ohio State for major weekend series
The Illini have surprised many in the Big Ten at 26-15 overall and 11-4 in conference play. The preseason coaches poll ranked their predicted top-six finishers in the league, with Illinois absent. But, the Illini are tied for the Big Ten lead with the Purdue Boilermakers and have nine games remaining, all against conference opponents.
Champaign County law enforcement supporting Special Olympics with ‘Cop on a Rooftop’
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Cop on a Rooftop is returning to Champaign to raise money and awareness for the Special Olympics. Local law enforcement will station themselves at the South Neil Street Dunkin’ on May 17 from 5 a.m. to noon. Some may even be seen waving to citizens from the rooftop of the quick […]
New kids on the block
These future Big Ten men’s basketball players have already had hits before in their career. It’s why they were so coveted in April during the wheelings and dealings of the always changing transfer portal. But the portal is now closed. With that in mind, Illini beat writer Scott Richey — about to enter his 10th season covering the Big Ten for The News-Gazette — taps 10 transfers who could have a significant effect on the conference next winter:
Ollie Okonkwo ready for final run in college after long journey to Illinois
URBANA (WCIA) -- Ollie Okonkwo will never forget the feeling when he found out Iowa was eliminating its men's tennis program due to COVID-19 cuts. Now he's thriving with the Illini, after transferring to Illinois.
Voting starts soon for Champaign Co.’s best waterfowl with Marsh Madness tournament
MAHOMET, Ill. (WCIA) — Caw-calling all lovers of winged wildlife! The Champaign County Forest Preserve District is kicking off their annual “Marsh Madness” tournament, where this year, you can vote on your favorite aquatic bird. Past brackets have featured plants and insects. Last year’s winner was the red-spotted purple butterfly. Here’s a peek at what […]
Good Morning, Illini Nation: A 'booty ball' primer
Welcome to “Good Morning, Illini Nation,” your daily dose of college basketball news from Illini beat writer and AP Top 25 voter Scott Richey. He’ll offer up insights every morning on Brad Underwood’s team and college basketball at large:. Want to dive deep into the Xs...
Makabu top 10 in country after helping Centennial to Twin City win
CHAMPAIGN — When Voldy Makabu launched himself into the air, all eyes were on him, but it was dead silent. His body cleared the bar, and for the briefest of moments, a few cheers squeaked out from onlookers. But as Makabu kicked his legs up, they grazed the bar and knocked it down, sending a collective gasp through the crowd.
On a Different Level: Connor Milton taking advantage of opportunity with Illini
CHAMPAIGN (WCIA) — Connor Milton is making the most of his opportunity to be an every day player for the Illinois baseball team and Tuesday night’s walk-off home run over No. 24 Indiana State is just another chapter of a two-week stretch he’ll never forget. “I was just trying to put a line drive on […]
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