The Illinois vs. Missouri men’s basketball rivalry is a tale as old as time… or at least as old as college basketball in the Midwest. The two teams share a history, and we’re diving into the key historical data and recent performances to see who comes out on top.
A look back: Illinois vs. Missouri over time
The first time the Illinois Fighting Illini and the Missouri Tigers met on the court, the Tigers didn’t fare so well. Over the years, the two teams have traded wins and losses, providing plenty of excitement for their fans.
Here’s how they’ve stacked up over time:
- Missouri’s longest winning streak against Illinois lasted from December 21, 2000, to December 23, 2008 — nine games in all.
- Illinois managed to turn the tables and rack up a four-game winning streak of their own between December 23, 2009, and December 22, 2012.
Recent Performance and Key Games
Let’s take a look at how the teams have fared against each other recently.
Last 10 Matchups
Over the last 10 games (from December 23, 2015, to December 22, 2024), Missouri has come out on top 6 times, while Illinois has won 4.
Last Matchup Details
In their most recent contest on December 22, 2024, Missouri defeated Illinois by a score of 80-77.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Illinois basketball ever been ranked number one?
Yes, the Illinois Fighting Illini men’s basketball team has reached the coveted number one ranking. The most memorable instance was during the 2004-2005 season when the “Orange Crush” team, led by Deron Williams and Dee Brown, dominated the college basketball landscape. They held the top spot for a significant portion of the season, ultimately reaching the NCAA championship game.
What is the Braggin’ Rights game?
The Braggin’ Rights game is the annual men’s basketball game between the University of Illinois Fighting Illini and the University of Missouri Tigers. It’s a highly anticipated event for fans of both schools, fueled by the geographical proximity of the two states. The game is typically held in St. Louis, Missouri, creating a neutral site atmosphere with passionate fans from both sides. The winner earns bragging rights for the year, adding extra intensity to the rivalry.
Final Thoughts
From the early gridiron battles to the Braggin’ Rights basketball showdowns, the rivalry between Illinois and Missouri has always been one to watch. And with passionate fans on both sides, expect the competition to continue for years to come.