Illini trying to take next step as program amid heightened expectations
Oct. 3—CHAMPAIGN — There's a different vibe around Ubben Basketball Complex this fall for Shauna Green and her Illinois women's basketball team. So much of that is the result of what the Illini accomplished last season in winning 22 games and reaching the NCAA tournament for the third time in four years with Green leading the program. But more of it is the fact Illinois returns the top nine ...
As the Illinois women's basketball team prepares for the 2026-27 season, there's a heightened sense of expectation surrounding the program. Last season, Shauna Green's Illini claimed 22 wins and reached the NCAA tournament for the third time in four years, with a roster that returned nine players, accounting for 99.3% of the scoring output in 2025-26. This strong retention has created a feeling of increased expectations for the team.
Coach Green emphasized that while the Illini always aim to win, the 2026-27 season will bring a different level of pressure. She stresses that the team must focus on their daily performance, controlling the day and doing things the right way to achieve the desired results. Green also highlighted the need for the team to be more physical and consistent during live actions.
The team, now further along than at this time last year, is working towards their goal of making a Sweet 16 in the NCAA tournament. Green reiterated that this is their next step as a program, and they understand the importance of being a top 16 seed, which guarantees hosting in the first and second rounds of the tournament. The Illini are aware of the significance of this achievement and are embracing the added pressure with the understanding that it will require hard work in both nonconference and Big Ten games.
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