The Drive on ESPN 93.5

06/16/26 Hour 2: Illinois Basketball Adds EIU and Penn to Schedule; Cardinals, Cubs Face Trade Deadline Decisions; Tuesday Draft - Best Smells of All Time

Illinois basketball's non-conference schedule continued to take shape as the Fighting Illini added matchups against in-state foe Eastern Illinois and Ivy League contender Penn. The games provide Brad Underwood's squad with opportunities to build its résumé while giving fans a closer look at another highly anticipated Illinois roster.

In Major League Baseball, trade deadline speculation heats up as the Cardinals weigh whether starting pitcher Dustin May could become one of the most coveted arms on the market. After another dominant outing against San Diego, the question becomes whether St. Louis views May as a key piece of a playoff push or a valuable trade asset.

Meanwhile, the Cubs face a similar dilemma with Seiya Suzuki. Despite Chicago's recent surge, Suzuki's bat could attract significant interest from contenders if the front office decides to capitalize on his value before the deadline.

The hour wrapped up with a spirited Tuesday Draft as the crew selected The Best Smells of All Time, featuring favorites ranging from fresh-cut grass and movie theater popcorn to bacon, campfires, and the smell of rain after a summer storm.

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06/16/26 Hour 1: Illinois Football Lands 4-Star WR Bennett Konkey, Flips RB Steven Alexis; Dustin May Shines for Cardinals, Cubs' PCA Hits for the Cycle

Illinois football continued its strong 2027 recruiting momentum by securing a commitment from 4-star wide receiver Bennett Konkey and flipping 3-star running back Steven Alexis, giving Bret Bielema's staff two major offensive additions for the future. The duo adds speed, playmaking ability, and depth to an already impressive Illini recruiting class.

On the diamond, the Cardinals received a dominant performance from pitcher Dustin May, who shut down the Padres lineup and delivered one of St. Louis' best starting pitching outings of the season.

Meanwhile, the Cubs earned a dramatic 5-4 comeback win over the Rockies behind a historic night from centerfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong. Crow-Armstrong became the first player in Major League Baseball to hit for the cycle during the 2026 season, completing the feat in reverse order (home run, triple, double, single) while helping spark Chicago's late rally at Wrigley Field. The Cubs capped the comeback with a walk-off victory and have now won four of their last five games.

06/15/26 Hour 2: Cardinals vs Padres & Cubs vs Rockies Preview | Hurricanes Win Stanley Cup, Team USA World Cup Outlook & Ty Rodgers Injury Update

Hour 2 of The Drive is packed with major headlines from across the sports world. The guys preview a crucial series for the St. Louis Cardinals against the San Diego Padres and break down what the Chicago Cubs need to do against the Colorado Rockies.

They also react to the Carolina Hurricanes capturing the Stanley Cup and discuss what their championship run means for the NHL landscape. Plus, a look at United States men's national soccer team and Team USA's performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including early takeaways and expectations moving forward.

The show wraps up with the latest on Ty Rodgers injury status, and how it affects Boise State. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook.

06/15/26 Hour 1: St. Joseph-Ogden Wins IHSA 2A State Championship | Coach Josh Haley Joins The Drive, Knicks Capture NBA Title & Latest Illini Headlines

The Drive kicks off the week with a championship celebration as St. Joseph-Ogden baseball head coach Josh Haley joins the show to discuss the Spartans' incredible run to the IHSA Class 2A State Championship, the key moments from the title game, and what the historic achievement means for the program and community.

The guys also break down the New York Knicks winning their first NBA championship in decades, what it means for the league, and where the defeated San Antonio Spurs go from here.

Plus, the latest Illinois Fighting Illini football and Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball headlines, recruiting updates, and a recap of Evan Stone's celebrity basketball appearance.

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06/12/26 Hour 2: Tristan Thomas from WCIA3 talks St. Joe-Ogden baseball, Dane Eisenmenger to Illini, & his basketball showdown against Evan Stone; Cards v Twins & Cubs v Giants preview; Friday Toasts!

Tristan Thomas joins the show to discuss St. Joseph-Ogden's run in IHSA baseball, the impact of quarterback commit Dane Eisenmenger on the future of Illinois football, and settles the score on whether he or Evan Stone would come out on top in the upcoming charity basketball showdown.

Plus, we preview a weekend interleague matchup between the St. Louis Cardinals and Minnesota Twins, as well as the Chicago Cubs taking on the San Francisco Giants. We wrap up the week with another edition of Friday Toasts, celebrating the people, teams, and moments that deserve a raise of the glass. 🍻

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06/12/26 Hour 1: Dane Eisenmenger meets the Illini Media; Jordan Sigler from Chi City Sports explains the next steps in Bears stadium move, talks Minicamp, Caleb Williams vs Michah Parsons, and more

Illinois quarterback commit Dane Eisenmenger meets the media for the first time and discusses why he chose the Illini, his fit in Barry Lunney Jr.'s offense, and what he hopes to bring to the future of Illinois football.

Plus, Jordan Sigler from Chi City Sports joins the show to break down the next steps in the Bears' proposed move to Indiana, the political and NFL hurdles that remain, impressions from Bears minicamp, the growing buzz around Caleb Williams, and his recent "war of words" with Micah Parsons.

We also hit the latest Illini and Bears headlines and react to a busy day across the sports landscape. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

06/11/26 Hour 2: Sunny Verma says Keaton Wagler to the Bulls could be a good thing, and Illini football & basketball recruitment news; Top 10 players from the Tim Beckman Era; Meet our intern Quinn

Sunny Verma from Locked On Illini joins the show to discuss why former Illinois star Keaton Wagler potentially landing with the Chicago Bulls could be an ideal situation for both sides. 

The conversation also turns to the latest Illinois football and basketball recruiting developments as Bret Bielema and Brad Underwood continue building momentum on the recruiting trail. From quarterback commitments to basketball targets, we discuss the names Illini fans need to know.

Later, we take a trip down memory lane and draft our Top 10 Players of the Tim Beckman Era at Illinois. Despite the struggles of those teams, several standout players emerged and left lasting marks on the program.

Plus, listeners get introduced to the newest member of The Drive team as we welcome intern Quinn Flavin to the show!

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06/11/26 Hour 1: Knicks stun Spurs with Greatest Comeback in NBA Playoff History; Carson Gourdie talks Illinois Football QB Room, Illini & Lincoln Williams, St. Joe-Ogden in IHSA Final Four Baseball

The New York Knicks are one win away from their first NBA title since 1973 after completing the largest comeback in NBA Finals history Wednesday night. New York erased a 29-point deficit and stunned the San Antonio Spurs 107-106 in Game 4 at Madison Square Garden. OG Anunoby delivered the game-winning tip-in with 1.2 seconds remaining, capping a historic rally that saw the Knicks outscore San Antonio 58-30 in the second half.

Carson Gourdie  from WICS-TV & Fox-Illinois breaks down what Illini Football landing Tolono Unity quarterback Dane Eisenmenger means for the future of Bret Bielema's quarterback room, how recent commitments are shaping the Illini's recruiting momentum, and why Lincoln Williams could be a difference-maker for Illinois basketball.

Plus, Carson has an update on St. Joe-Ogden baseball as the Spartans prepare for the IHSA Class 2A State Finals, looking to cap another remarkable postseason run with a state championship.

06/10/26 Hour 2: NBA Finals Game 4 preview, why Wemby will win; Cards vs Mets and Cubs vs Rockies preview; Evan goes Hulk Hogan on The World Cup, Brother!

The 2026 NBA Finals shift into a pivotal Game 4 tonight as the New York Knicks look to take a commanding 3-1 series lead over the San Antonio Spurs. After San Antonio's 115-111 win in Game 3, all eyes are on Victor Wembanyama, who dominated with 32 points and completely changed the series with his rim protection and ability to control the paint. The Knicks still lead 2-1, but another Wemby masterpiece could swing the momentum back to San Antonio heading home.

If the Spurs ultimately win this series, it's hard to see anyone other than Victor Wembanyama taking home Finals MVP. He's been the most impactful player on the floor on both ends and is beginning to solve New York's offense while creating matchup nightmares for the Knicks.

The Cardinals continue their series against the Mets looking to build momentum. How good are the Birds right now?

Out west, the Cubs continue their series with the Rockies. How bleak are things for the Cubs right now?

Plus, Evan Stone transforms into Hulk Hogan to react to the growing excitement around the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

"Whatcha gonna do, brother, when World Cup Mania runs wild on YOU?!" 🌎⚽💪

06/10/26 Hour 1: Kyle Tausk from Illini Inquirer tells us why Lincoln Williams was perfect timing, reviews Quintin Coleman's Team USA Performance; Tolono Unity QB Dane Eisenmenger to Illinois

Kyle Tausk of Illini Inquirer breaks down why the addition of Lincoln Williams was perfect timing for Brad Underwood and Illinois Basketball after the late recruiting cycle. Williams finished his high school career with 1,853 points and gives the Illini another talented in-state guard with scoring ability and defensive upside.

Plus, Kyle reviews the impressive start by Illinois signee Quentin Coleman with Team USA at the FIBA U18 AmeriCup, where the freshman forward opened tournament play with an 11-point, 15-rebound double-double and showcased the athleticism that has Illini fans excited.

Also, the guys discuss Tolono Unity quarterback Dane Eisenmenger committing to Illinois Football and what the local standout brings to Bret Bielema's quarterback room moving forward.

06/09/26 Hour 2: Alex Kyi from Armchair Illini breaks down Sladen Shack's game, Lincoln Williams' recruitment process, and more; Tuesday Draft - Best Sports Video Games of All Time; World Cup Tweets

Alex Kyi from Armchair Illini joins the show to break down what Illinois is getting in newly-committed quarterback Sladen Shack, why the coaching staff made him a priority, and what stands out most about his game. We also discuss four-star basketball recruit Lincoln Williams, how his recruitment unfolded, and what his commitment means for Brad Underwood's future roster plans.

Plus, it's Tuesday Draft Day as we build our lists of the Best Sports Video Games of All Time. From NCAA Football and Madden to NBA Jam, MVP Baseball, and more, which classics make the cut?

And we wrap things up with another edition of World Cup Tweets, featuring the funniest posts from the international fans experiencing America for the first time.

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06/09/26 Hour 1: Illinois Football lands 3-Star Quarterback Sladen Shack - what you need to know; Cardinals vs Mets and Cubs vs Rockies Preview

06/09/26 Hour 1: Illinois Football lands 3-Star Quarterback Sladen Shack - what you need to know; Cardinals vs Mets and Cubs vs Rockies Preview

Illinois football added another piece to its future quarterback room as three-star 2027 signal caller Sladen Shack from Brandon, Mississippi announced his commitment to Bret Bielema and the Illini. The 6-foot-1, 211-pound quarterback chose Illinois over offers from Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, UConn, South Florida, East Carolina and others. Shack is rated as one of Mississippi's top prospects in the Class of 2027 and becomes Illinois' quarterback commitment for the cycle after the staff reset its recruiting board this spring. Illinois coaches Art Sitkowski and Barry Lunney Jr. prioritized Shack following strong evaluations and an official visit to Champaign. The commitment continues Illinois' recent pipeline into Mississippi, following the success of former Illini quarterback Luke Altmyer. 

Then we shift to baseball as the Cardinals open a three-game series against the Mets at Citi Field. St. Louis enters the matchup at 35-28 and currently holds the top National League Wild Card position, while New York sits at 29-36 but comes home with momentum after winning series against both San Diego and Seattle. Young stars Jordan Walker and JJ Wetherholt continue to fuel the Cardinals' surprising season, while the Mets welcome catcher Francisco Alvarez back from the injured list ahead of the series opener. The matchup features two teams trying to strengthen their playoff positioning in a crowded National League race.

Meanwhile, the Cubs begin a six-game season series with the Rockies at Coors Field. Chicago enters the series looking to gain ground after an inconsistent stretch, while Colorado continues rebuilding after a difficult 2025 campaign. The probable pitching matchups feature Colin Rea vs. Tomoyuki Sugano, Shota Imanaga vs. Michael Lorenzen, and Edward Cabrera vs. Ryan Feltner. Despite Colorado's struggles, Coors Field has historically been a difficult place for the Cubs, making this an important road test as they try to stay in the National League playoff picture. 

06/08/26 Hour 2: Brian Teague from Chicago State of Mind Sports tells us why the Bears WON'T be going to Indiana, Lincoln Williams to the Illini, and Quentin Coleman's performance for Team USA U8

Brian Teague from Chicago State of Mind Sports joins the show to break down the latest developments in the Bears stadium saga and explains why he believes the franchise ultimately won't be relocating to Indiana despite recent headlines and speculation. What hurdles remain, and what could keep the Bears rooted in Illinois?

The Illini continue to build for the future with the commitment of Kankakee star Lincoln Williams. The highly regarded prospect adds another talented in-state piece to Brad Underwood's recruiting efforts and gives Illinois fans plenty to be excited about moving forward.

Plus, we discuss another impressive performance from Quentin Coleman while representing Team USA at the U18 level. The rising Illini standout continues to showcase his talent on the international stage, further fueling expectations for his future in Champaign.

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06/08/26 Hour 1: Illinois Basketball lands Kankakee star Lincoln Williams, Football lands 3 new recruits, and more Illini Headlines; Tribute to Stacey King

The future continues to look bright in Champaign as Illinois basketball adds one of the state's rising stars, Kankakee standout Lincoln Williams. Williams turned heads throughout his high school career, including a record-setting 44-point performance that broke Kankakee's single-game scoring mark, and now gives the Illini another talented in-state piece for the future.

On the football side, Bret Bielema and his staff continue to build recruiting momentum, adding three more commitments as Illinois looks to follow up what has become one of the strongest recruiting stretches in program history. The Illini have elevated their recruiting profile significantly in recent years, consistently landing top in-state talent and competing for higher-ranked classes nationally.

Plus, we pay tribute to legendary Bulls broadcaster and former NBA champion Stacey King.

All that and more in today's Illini Headlines.

06/05/26 Hour 2: Chris Kwiecinski from Fox32 with the latest from Halas Hall & The Bears, Kurtis teaches Evan about baseball stats; Friday Toasts!

The Bears-to-Indiana conversation continues as Chris Kwiecinski from Fox 32 joins us with the latest from Halas Hall following Thursday's bombshell announcement from Chairman George McCaskey and President/CEO Kevin Warren. What hurdles remain before the Bears can officially call Indiana home? Chris brings the latest reporting and analysis.

Then, Kurtis takes over the classroom and gives Evan a crash course in modern baseball statistics. Which advanced metrics actually matter? Which ones are overrated? And can analytics really tell us more than the traditional numbers fans grew up with?

Plus, it's Friday, which means it's time for our weekly Toasts! We'll celebrate the best moments of the week, recognize the people who deserve a shoutout, and send everyone into the weekend on a positive note.

All that and more on Hour 2! 🍻

06/05/26 Hour 1: Are you ready for the Hammond Bears? George McCaskey & Kevin Warren announce Bears are Indiana-Bound; Cardinals vs Reds Preview; Giants smoke the Cubs

The Chicago Bears took their biggest step yet toward leaving Illinois, as Chairman George McCaskey and President/CEO Kevin Warren announced that the team's Board of Directors has voted to advance plans for a new stadium project in Hammond, Indiana. While an exact site has not yet been selected, the vote marks the first time the Bears' board has formally approved a stadium location path, signaling Indiana has become the franchise's preferred option.

We'll break down what this means for Bears fans, whether Illinois still has any chance of keeping the team, and if "The Hammond Bears" could actually become a reality after more than a century in Illinois.

Plus, the Cardinals open a key divisional series against the Reds as they look to continue their strong play in the NL Central race.

And after getting embarrassed by the Giants today, are the Cubs back to unraveling? We'll discuss what's gone wrong and whether concern is warranted on the North Side.

All that and more on Hour 1!

06/04/26 Hour 2: HOF'er Rob Rains talks Cardinals & why this team plays so relaxed, which player is his surprise star; Aaron Donald back to the Rams?; Draft Winner - Most Hateable Athletes

Hall of Fame baseball writer Rob Rains joins the show to discuss the Cardinals' recent surge and why this team appears to be playing with a loose, confident attitude. He shares his thoughts on what's fueling the club's success, the impact of manager Oliver Marmol, and identifies the player who has emerged as his biggest surprise star so far this season.

The NFL rumor mill is buzzing again as speculation grows about a potential return of Aaron Donald to the Los Angeles Rams. Is there any chance the future Hall of Famer comes out of retirement, and what would it mean for the Rams' Super Bowl hopes?

Plus, the show wraps up with another spirited Draft Day segment as the crew selects the most hateable athletes in sports history. From villains who dominated rival teams to controversial stars who seemed to thrive on fan outrage, the debate is sure to spark plenty of reactions.

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06/04/26 Hour 1: Isaac Ambrose talks Bielema calling out Pete Bevecqua, and is Underwood the GOAT Coach in Illini history?; Knicks stun the Spurs

Isaac Ambrose joins the show to break down Bret Bielema's recent comments directed toward Notre Dame Athletic Director Pete Bevacqua and what they reveal about college football scheduling, playoff access, and the changing power structure of the sport.

The conversation then shifts to Illinois basketball and a debate that continues to gain steam in Champaign: has Brad Underwood already become the greatest coach in Illini history? With multiple Big Ten titles, deep NCAA Tournament runs, and the program's sustained success, the case for Underwood is stronger than ever. How does he stack up against Illinois legends such as Lou Henson and Harry Combes?

Plus, the NBA Finals opened with a surprise as the New York Knicks stunned the San Antonio Spurs in Game 1, stealing home-court advantage behind a strong fourth-quarter performance and putting early pressure on the Western Conference champions.

6/03/26 Hour 2: Who are your picks for the MLB All-Star Team; Draft Day - Most Hated Athletes in Sports History

It's never too early to talk All-Stars! With the season approaching the midway point, we reveal our picks for the 2026 MLB All-Star Game. Who deserves a starting spot? Which players are having breakout seasons? And who are the biggest snubs if the voting ended today? We go position-by-position through our American League and National League selections.

Then it's time for another edition of Draft Day. This week's topic: The Most Hated Athletes in Sports History. From controversial stars and notorious villains to athletes fans loved to boo, we draft the biggest lightning rods sports has ever seen. Which names are automatic first-round picks, and which athletes generated the most passionate reactions from opposing fan bases?

Join us for All-Star debates, baseball talk, and one of the most entertaining Draft Day topics yet.

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06/03/26 Hour 1: Cardinals & Cubs both skidding; Illini Headlines; Who are the players from Rival Teams that you respected?

The baseball season is a grind, and both the Cardinals and Cubs are feeling it right now as each club tries to stop recent losing stretches and stay in the thick of their division races. We break down what's gone wrong, what needs to change, and whether either team should be concerned long-term.

Plus, it's time for Illini Headlines as we catch up on the latest news surrounding Illinois athletics, including recruiting, summer workouts, and the biggest stories making waves around Champaign-Urbana.

And inspired by a conversation about sports rivalries, we ask: Who are the players from rival teams that you couldn't help but respect? Whether it was their talent, leadership, toughness, or ability to come through in big moments, we share the rivals we admired despite rooting against them.

Tune in for baseball talk, Illini updates, and a trip down memory lane with some of sports' most respected rivals.

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