CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Illinois men’s basketball has surged into the top five of the AP Top 25 poll, reaching its highest ranking since the 2020-21 season. The Fighting Illini moved up four spots to No. 5 in Monday’s poll after back-to-back road wins over Washington and No. 5 Nebraska, marking the biggest jump of any team this week.
The rise reflects Illinois’ strong season, as the team sits at 19-3 overall and 10-1 in Big Ten play, tied atop the conference standings with Michigan. The last time Illinois was ranked this high was during the 2020-21 season, when the Illini finished second in the Big Ten, won the conference tournament and earned a No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament.
Illinois has consistently appeared in the AP poll in recent seasons, including a top-10 ranking in 2021-22 and a run to the Elite Eight in 2024. This season’s performance has pushed the program to new heights, with key wins over top-ranked conference opponents suggesting the Illini are positioning themselves for a strong postseason.
Up next, Illinois will return home to face Northwestern before a critical road game at No. 10 Michigan State on Saturday. The matchup could have significant implications for the Big Ten title race and NCAA tournament seeding.