The Drive on ESPN 93.5

4/14/26 Hour 2: Kyle Tausk & Evan Stone talk Illini Sports headlines, Spring football talk & more

Evan and Kyle discuss a wide variety of topics including trending sports headlines, Illini spring football, the college basketball transfer portal and much more.

4/14/26 Hour 1: Shauna Green joins the show to talk Illini WBB offseason & retention; Kyle Tausk in studio on Illini MBB offseason

Illini Inquirer's Kyle Tausk is in studio filling in for Kurtis to discuss Illini basketball's offseason and retention & transfer portal efforts. Later, Illinois women's basketball head coach Shauna Green joins the show to talk about her team's offseason.

04/13/26: Ravi Lulla from Hurrdat Sports talks B1G Ten Transfer Portal; Alex Kyi from Armchair Illini on Stefan Vaaks transferring to Illinois, John Blackwell, Quinten Coleman, & expectations for 2026

Ravi Lulla of Hurrdat Sports joins the show to break down the latest movement in the Big Ten Transfer Portal and what it means for teams across the conference.

Alex Kyi from Armchair Illini also stops by to discuss Stefan Vaaks’ transfer to Illinois, along with insights on John Blackwell and Quinten Coleman. The conversation wraps up with expectations and outlook for Illinois basketball heading into the 2026 season.

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04/10/26 Hour 2: WCIA Sports Director Glenn Kinley talks Transfer Portal, John Blackwell, Keaton Wagler, & Illinois football; Friday Toasts

WCIA Sports Director Glenn Kinley joins the show to break down the latest developments in the Transfer Portal, including what it could mean for Illinois basketball. He also shares insight on the potential impact of John Blackwell, Keaton Wagler's future, and more. The conversation shifts to Illinois football, highlighting key storylines to watch this offseason.

The hour wraps up with our Friday Toasts! Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

04/10/26 Hour 1: New Illini Commit Quentin Coleman joins the show! Plus Illini Headlines and the debut of "Around the Bases"

New Illinois basketball commit Quentin Coleman joins the show to discuss his decision to become an Illini and what he brings to the program.

The hour also features the latest Illini headlines, keeping fans up to date on all the news surrounding the university.

In addition, the show debuts a brand-new segment, “Around the Bases,” highlighting key storylines from the world of baseball. It’s a packed opening hour filled with insight, news, and exciting new content for listeners.

04/09/26 Hour 2: Tristan Thomas talks Transfer Portal, Keaton Wagler, John Blackwell, and more; The Masters Draft Results

WCIA 3 Sports' Tristan Thomas breaks down the latest developments in the college basketball transfer portal. He discussed key Illini-related storylines, including the potential impact and future of Keaton Wagler, as well as the buzz surrounding John Blackwell.

The hour wrapped up with the results of The Masters Draft. Kurtis needed A LOT of help from the text line, but was it enough to beat Evan and Coop? 

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04/09/26 Hour 1: Principia HC Jay Blossom "Quentin Coleman is the best player I've ever coached." Carson Gourdie on Illini & EIU Spring football; Dr, Daniel Thomspon on 5-Star transfer Divine Bourrage

Principia high school head coach Jay Blossom is a multi-time state champion and has sent several players to the NCAA. He joined the show to discuss Illini recruit Quentin Coleman, calling him “the best player he’s ever coached” and highlighting what makes Coleman such a special talent.

The conversation then shifted to the gridiron, as Carson Gourdie provided updates and insights on both Illinois and Eastern Illinois spring football. Carson covers key storylines, player development, and what fans should watch as the spring progresses.

Dr. Daniel Thompson shared his perspective on 5-star transfer Divine Bourrage and the impact the highly touted addition could have on the Illinois women's basketball program. 

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04/07/26 Hour 2: Kyle Tausk from Illini Inquirer on Keaton Wagler's future, Illini Transfer Portal, and more; Tuesday Draft - Golfers in The Masters

The Great Kyle Tausk from Illini Inquirer joins the show to break down the latest on Keaton Wagler’s future and what lies ahead for Illinois in the Transfer Portal. The conversation dives into potential roster movement and how the Illini could reshape the team this offseason. Tausk provides insight into key targets and overall expectations for the program moving forward.

Later, the guys switch gears for their Tuesday Draft, selecting golfers competing in The Masters. Kurtis has no idea who to draft. Will the text line come through to save him? Or is this a two man race between Evan and Cooper?

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04/07/26 Hour 1: Head Coach Brad Underwood talks about the Illini's Final Four run, Transfer Portal, and the Coaches vs Cancer Event; Brad Sturdy from Illini Guys; Could Keaton Wagler stay?

Illinois head coach Brad Underwood joins the show to reflect on the Illini’s Final Four run, discuss plans for the Transfer Portal, and promote the upcoming Coaches vs. Cancer event. The conversation highlights both the success of the season and the challenges of maintaining momentum heading into the offseason.

Brad Sturdy also joins to provide insight and analysis on the current state of the program. The guys dive into roster questions, including whether Keaton Wagler could return. It’s a packed hour focused on the future of Illinois basketball.

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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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