The Drive on ESPN 93.5

04/06/26 Hour 2: How will the Illini attack the Transfer Portal starting tomorrow? Could John Blackwell come to Champaign? Plus Jay Bilas vs John Calipari over the NCAA & NIL Money

The Transfer Portal officially opens tonight at Midnight. How will Illinois and Brad Underwood approach the portal and what areas the Illini need to address most? Will the Ivisic Twis, David Mirkovic, and Andrej Stojakovic be on the roster next year? We also explore the possibility of Wisconsin's John Blackwell making his way to Champaign and how he could fit into the roster.

Plus, we react to a heated debate between Jay Bilas and John Calipari over the NCAA and the impact of NIL money. It’s a forward-looking hour packed with roster speculation and big-picture conversation around the future of college athletics.

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04/06/26 Hour 1: Illini lose to UConn in the Final Four; Brian Teague from Chicago State of Mind Sports breaks down the loss, Quentin Coleman, Angel Reese's trade, and Gabe Jacas in the NFL Draft

We react to Illinois’ tough loss to the Conn Huskies in the Final Four, ending a memorable run for the Illini. Brian Teague joins the show to break down what went wrong and where the game slipped away. Where do the Illini go from here and how does new commit Quentin Coleman fit into the equation.

The conversation also shifts to the news of Angel Reese being traded and what it means for her future. Plus, a look ahead at Gabe Jacas and his outlook in the upcoming NFL Draft. It’s a packed hour covering the Illini, pro basketball headlines, and football storylines.

04/03/26 Hour 2: Final Four preview part 2 - Illinois vs UConn; Dan Dakich vs Illini Fans; Score Predictions and Friday Toasts!

Hour 2 continues the Final Four preview of Illinois vs. UConn, diving deeper into matchups and keys to the game. The show also highlights the ongoing back-and-forth between Dan Dakich and Illini fans, adding some heat to the conversation. The guys give their score predictions and expectations for how the game will play out. Plus, the hour wraps up with the always-entertaining Friday Toasts.

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04//03/26 Hour 1: Illinois vs UConn preview part 1, live updates from Lucas Oil Stadium with Cooper O'Kelly and Chris Hightower; Quentin Coleman commits to the Illini

Part 1 of our Illinois vs. UConn Final Four preview, breaking down the key storylines heading into the matchup. The show features live updates straight from Lucas Oil Stadium, capturing the atmosphere and latest developments. Cooper O’Kelly checks in on-site with insights and observations from the scene. Chris Hightower also joins to add analysis, energy, and fan perspective ahead of the big game.

Plus, Quentin Coleman committing to Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball is a HUGE pickup, as the four-star, top-35 guard brings scoring ability and perimeter shooting to the future backcourt. At 6’4” with a smooth offensive game, Coleman can stretch the floor and develop into a key playmaker, helping Illinois reload and stay competitive in the Big Ten.

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04/02/26 Hour 2: Lon Tay is back in-studio to talk Illinois in the Final Four!

A familiar voice to listeners is back in-studio to talk all things Illinois and their Final Four run - Lon Tay! "Uncle" Lon gives us his insight and perspective on the program’s biggest moment. The text line lights up with questions, we find out what Lon REALLY thinks of the show, and Kurtis debuts a new song in Lon's honor.

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04/02/26 Hour 1: Tom Fornelli of CBS Sports; Brian Teague of Chicago State of Mind Sports talk Illinois in the Final Four

Tom Fornelli of CBS Sports joins the show to break down Illinois’ Final Four run and what’s made this team so dangerous. He shares insight on the matchup ahead and how the Illini stack up against the nation’s best.

Brian Teague of Chicago State of Mind Sports also weighs in, live from Indianapolis, with his perspective on Illinois’ path and key players. Both guests highlight the excitement surrounding the program as it competes on college basketball’s biggest stage.

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03/31/26 Hour 2: Kyle Tausk from Illini Inquirer breaks down Illinois vs UConn in the Final Four; Illinois Autographed Jersey Giveaway

"The Great" Kyle Tausk from Illini Inquirer joins the show to break down Illinois vs. UConn in the Final Four, diving into key matchups and what the Illini need to do to advance. He shares insight on tempo, defensive challenges, and where Illinois may have an edge. The conversation also highlights standout players and the pressure of the moment on both sides.

Plus, we announce an Illinois autographed jersey giveaway with details on how listeners can win.

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03/31/26 Hour 1: An Illini '05 Reunion! It's a full hour with Roger Powell Jr and Dee Brown

It’s an Illini ‘05 reunion as Roger Powell Jr. and Dee Brown join us for a full hour to relive their unforgettable run to the national title game. They reflect on their playing days in Champaign, the chemistry and toughness that defined that team, and what made that group so special. Both also dive into their coaching careers and how their experiences at Illinois continue to shape their approach to the game today. Plus, they compare that 2005 squad to this year’s Illini team and discuss whether this group has what it takes to make a similar championship run.

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03/30/26 Hour 2: Steve Greenberg from the Chicago Sun-Times talks Brad Underwood's success, Illini's win over Iowa, and how challenging UCONN will be

Steve Greenberg from the Chicago Sun-Times joins the show to discuss Brad Underwood’s continued success at Illinois. He breaks down the Illini’s impressive wins over Houston & Iowa and what stood out most. Greenberg also shares insight into how far the program has come under Underwood’s leadership. Plus, a look ahead at just how tough a matchup UConn will be for Illinois in the Final Four.

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03/30/26 Hour 1: The Fighting Illini are headed to The Final Four - Dave Wischnowsky discusses the win over Iowa & previews match against UCONN.

The Fighting Illini are headed to the Final Four after a huge win over Iowa. Dave Wischnowsky joins the show to break down how Illinois got it done. He highlights the key moments and standout performances that fueled the victory. Plus, a preview of the Illini’s upcoming matchup against UConn as they chase a national title.

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03/27/26 Hour 2: Isaac Trotter from 247 Sports & CBS Sports dissects Illinois' win over Houston, previews game against Iowa. Plus our Friday Toasts and your texts!

Isaac Trotter of 247Sports and CBS Sports joins the show to break down Illinois’ impressive win over Houston Cougars. He also previews the Illini’s upcoming matchup against the Iowa Hawkeyes and what to watch for. A must-listen conversation with one of the best college basketball minds!

Plus the text line lights up with questions at 217-359-2255 and the guys give their Friday Toasts!

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03/27/26 Hour 1: Illinois SMOTHERS Houston & moves on to the Elite 8; Kyle Tausk breaks down the win & previews Illini vs Hawkeyes; Jackson Roberts of SI & Baseball Now talks Cardinals Opening Day Win

Illinois dominated Houston Cougars with a smothering defensive performance, punching their ticket to the Elite 8. Kyle Tausk from Illini Inquirer joined the show to break down the key moments from the win and look ahead to the Illini’s matchup with the Iowa Hawkeyes. He highlighted what Illinois needs to carry over to keep the run going.

Later, Jackson Roberts of Sports Illustrated & Baseball Now joined the show to talk baseball and recap the St. Louis Cardinals Opening Day victory. The hour covered a big night for both Illinois basketball and Cardinals baseball.

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03/25/26 Hour 2: Comedy Star & Illini Super Fan Christopher Hightower joins the show!

Comedy star and Illini super fan Christopher Hightower joins the show to bring energy and insight ahead of Illinois vs. Houston. He shares his thoughts on the matchup and why he likes the Illini’s chances, sparking plenty of reaction from listeners. The text line lights up in agreement with Chris’ takes, adding to the excitement around the Sweet Sixteen showdown.

The conversation also shifts to Illinois football and what’s ahead for the program. Plus we talk about his comedy heroes and the upcoming "Salute to Veterans" event at The City Center in Champaign. This is a MUST listen hour!

 

 

 

03/25/26 Hour 1: Jacob Myers of League Him previews Illinois vs Houston, Pat McAvoy of Baseball Now & SI previews the Cardinals season, Tristan Thomas talks Illini and Sweet Sixteen & Parkland Cobras

It's Sweet Sixteen & Opening Day Eve!

Jacob Myers of League Him joins the show to preview Illinois vs. Houston and break down the key matchups heading into the Sweet Sixteen. He shares insight on what the Illini must do to advance and how they stack up against the Cougars.

Pat McAvoy of Baseball Now and Sports Illustrated stops by to preview the upcoming St. Louis Cardinals season, highlighting expectations and key storylines. Pat tells us why it's not doom & gloom for the Red Birds in 2026.

Tristan Thomas adds more Illini coverage, discussing their tournament run and what’s clicking at the right time. He also touches on the Parkland Cobras and their continued postseason success.

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03/24/26 Hour 2: Sunny Verma tells us if Illini are playing their best basketball right now; A KenPom stat that gives Illinois an advantage vs Houston; Cardinals Opening Day Countdown

Sunny Verma from Locked on Illini and Orange & Blue News weighs in on whether Illinois are playing their best basketball at the perfect time. The discussion highlights a key KenPom stat that could give Illinois an edge over the Houston Cougars in the Sweet 16. The guys break down how that advantage might impact the matchup.

Plus, the countdown is on for MLB Opening Day as excitement builds for the St. Louis Cardinals season.

03/24/26 Hour 1: Carson Gourdie talks Illinois vs Houston, Underwood's game plan, and Illini Spring Football; Dr. Daniel Thompson on Women's loss to Vandy & end of season

WICS-TV & Fox Illinois' Carson Gourdie breaks down the Sweet 16 matchup between the Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball and the Houston Cougars, diving into what to expect and how Brad Underwood may approach the game. He also shares insights on Illini spring football and what early storylines are emerging.

Later, Dr. Daniel Thompson recaps the Illinois Fighting Illini women's basketball loss to the Vanderbilt Commodores women's basketball. The conversation wraps with a look back at the women’s season and what’s next for the program.

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03/23/26 Hour 2: Kyle Tausk from Illini Inquirer and Dave Wischnowsky talk Illinois moving on to The Sweet 16, preview Houston game

"The Great" Kyle Tausk from Illini Inquirer and "The Legend" Dave Wischnowsky join the show to break down Illinois advancing to the Sweet 16. The guys discuss Andrej Stojakovic's performance against VCU and the re-emergence of Tomislav Ivisic in the tournament.

Attention then turns to a high-stakes matchup against Houston. We preview the key factors, matchups, and what Illinois needs to do to keep their season alive. A must-listen hour! 

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03/23/26 Hour 1: Illini men are headed to the Sweet 16! We preview with Brian Teague from Chicago State of Mind Sports; Preview Illini women vs Vanderbilt

The Illini men are headed to the Sweet 16 after an impressive victory over VCU. Brian Teague from Chicago State of Mind Sports joins the show to break down what’s clicking for Illinois and what lies ahead against #2 Houston.

The focus then shifts to the Illini women as they prepare for their matchup against Vanderbilt in the 2nd round. We preview the key storylines, matchups, and what Illinois needs to do to advance.

03/20/26 Hour 2: Alex Kyi from Armchair Illini talks Illinois' win over Penn & previews the VCU game; Would you rather Illini win a title & be mediocre for 5 years or go to the Elite 8 every year?

Alex Kyi from Armchair Illini joins us t0 break down Illinois’ win over Penn and looking ahead to their matchup with VCU. He shares key insights on what carried the Illini in the opening round and what challenges await in the next game. The conversation also dives into expectations for Illinois moving forward in the tournament.

Plus, we debate a fun hypothetical: would you rather the Illini win one national title and be mediocre for five years, or make the Elite Eight every season?

Evan has your tourney bets with Etched in Stone and our Friday Toasts!

03/20/26 Hour 1: Recap of Illinois' dominant win over Penn; Dr. Daniel Thompson previews Illini women's game vs Colorado

We opened Hour 1 by recapping Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball’s dominant NCAA Tournament win over the Penn Quakers men's basketball. It was a historic night for David Mirkovic! The Illini controlled the game from start to finish, showcasing their depth and offensive firepower. 

Then, Dr. Daniel Thompson joined the show to preview the upcoming matchup for Illinois Fighting Illini women's basketball. He broke down what to expect as they prepare to face the Colorado Buffaloes women's basketball.