As the 2026-27 college basketball season approaches, Illinois Fighting Illini fans have plenty to look forward to. The NCAA has expanded the regular season schedule to 32 games, giving teams more opportunities to build their resumes. For the Illini, that means a balanced mix of 12 non-conference matchups and 20 Big Ten battles before the conference tournament tips off on March 9, 2027.

While the exact dates and tip-off times for conference games won't be released until September, we're keeping a close eye on the non-conference slate as announcements roll in. One highlight already confirmed: the annual rivalry showdown with Missouri will return to the Enterprise Center in St. Louis. Since the 2021-22 season, this December 22nd tradition has become a can't-miss event, and while the 2026 date is still TBD, expect another thrilling chapter in the Braggin' Rights series.

Stay tuned as we update this tracker with every new matchup, so you can plan your game-day wardrobe—whether it's repping the orange and blue at home or on the road.