Illinois Fighting Illini Basketball Tickets

The University of Illinois is reachable in two to three hours by car from three major cities: Chicago, Indianapolis and St. Louis. If you’re looking to watch some major college hoops from those locations – or anywhere in between – take a ride to watch the Fighting Illini.

Illinois basketball has a long-standing tradition of success, as it ranks among the top programs in all-time wins. The school was a charter member of the Big Ten Conference in 1895, and began playing basketball in 1906. Its hoops accomplishments include multiple Final Four appearances along with scores of NCAA Tournament berths and conference titles.

Many Big Ten opponents can be counted as rivals, but Illini fans probably await matchups with Indiana more than any other team. The schools are located approximately 150 miles apart, recruit against each other often, and have been battling on the court for more than 110 years. The all-time series – which includes at least two matchups every season – is close to even.

The Fighting Illini play home games on campus at State Farm Center, which has been around since 1963 and holds more than 15,000 fans. Parking is plentiful adjacent to the arena.

The Illinois student section – known as “Orange Krush” – occupies seats on the floor and in the upper deck, while helping make the atmosphere enjoyable for home fans and intimidating for opponents.