Fighting Illini Host Colgate in Key Non-Conference Test

The #14 Illinois Fighting Illini (3-0) look to extend their strong start to the 2025-26 season when they welcome the Colgate Raiders (1-2) to State Farm Center for a crucial non-conference matchup on Friday, November 14, 2025. After an impressive 81-77 victory over #11 Texas Tech, Brad Underwood's squad aims to build momentum before a daunting stretch of ranked opponents.

Game Details: When, Where, and How to Watch

Date: Friday, November 14, 2025
Time: 8:00 PM CT
Location: State Farm Center, Champaign, IL
Live Stream: BigTenPlus.com (B1G+ app)
Radio: Busey Bank Illini Sports Network (Varsity Network App, SiriusXM 146/195)

Fans can access the game through a B1G+ subscription ($12.99/month or $89.99/year), with Tony Fanara providing play-by-play commentary. While not televised nationally, the matchup will be streamed exclusively on the Big Ten Network's digital platform.

Illini Riding High After Win Over Texas Tech

Illinois enters Friday's contest on the heels of its most significant non-conference victory in years. The Illini's 81-77 triumph over #11 Texas Tech marked the program's highest-ranked home win since 2022 and its first ranked non-conference win at State Farm Center in the Underwood era. Key performances came from:

• Andrej Stojakovic: 23 points, 3 rebounds, 3 steals, and a game-clinching block
• Kylan Boswell: 22 points, 3 threes, and surpassed 1,000 career points
• David Mirkovic: Named Big Ten Freshman of the Week after back-to-back double-doubles
• Zvonimir Ivisic: 7 blocks against FGCU (2nd most in program history)

With a nation-leading rebound margin (+22.3 rpg) and a top-5 offense (No. 3 kenpom), the Illini appear poised for another deep NCAA Tournament run after last season's Elite Eight appearance.

Colgate: A Respected Mid-Major Program

Despite a 1-2 record, Colgate (1-2) is no pushover. Under veteran coach Matt Langel, the Raiders have made four NCAA Tournament appearances since 2021 and feature a disciplined, sharpshooting style that challenges major programs. Key contributors include:

• Jalen Cox: Preseason All-Patriot League selection; averaged 11.9 points and 3.9 assists last season
• Sam Wright: Averaging 18.3 points on 63.6% shooting this season; 22 points vs Drexel

Colgate's system emphasizes ball movement, perimeter shooting (11 threes against Michigan State), and defensive discipline. Their only win this season came against Drexel (90-83), where Cox recorded 26 points, 9 assists, and 6 rebounds.

Key Matchup Insights

Illinois holds a significant size advantage, featuring multiple 7-footers (Ivisic brothers) and a frontcourt that should dominate the paint. Colgate lacks a true center, potentially leading to rebounding struggles. However, the Raiders' ability to stretch the floor with three-point shooting could keep them in the game if Illinois's perimeter defense falters.

One subplot to watch is the potential return of guard Mihailo Petrovic, who was close to playing against Texas Tech but remains sidelined. His addition would provide valuable depth as Illinois prepares for upcoming matchups against #8 Alabama, #2 UConn, and #20 Tennessee.

Series History and What's Next

Illinois leads the all-time series 5-0, including a 74-57 victory in Champaign during the 2023-24 season. The Illini have won 32 consecutive non-conference home games against unranked opponents under Underwood.

After Colgate, Illinois faces a brutal 17-day stretch featuring three top-25 opponents on neutral floors:

• Nov. 19 vs. #8 Alabama (United Center, Chicago)
• Nov. 28 vs. #2 UConn (Madison Square Garden, NY)
• Dec. 6 vs. #20 Tennessee (Bridgestone Arena, Nashville)

Friday's game serves as a critical tune-up before this gauntlet. A victory would extend the Illini's home winning streak to six games and provide momentum as they aim to start 4-0 for the first time since the 2022-23 season.

"Illinois is the winningest team in Big Ten play since 2019-20, with 81 league wins over the previous six seasons."

[IMAGE_1: Illinois Fighting Illini basketball team huddle at State Farm Center]

As the Illini eye their third straight 20-win season and another NCAA Tournament run, Friday's matchup against Colgate represents both a necessary tune-up and a chance to solidify their national ranking before the conference slate begins.