Illinois’ win over Indiana was big in the Big Ten race — but what happened off the court may have been even bigger for the future of the program. During NBA All-Star Weekend, former Illini stars Will Riley and Kasparas Jakucionis returned to Champaign to support the team, joined by Terrence Shannon Jr. and Dain Dainja around the program. It’s the latest example of the culture Brad Underwood has built at Illinois — one where even one-and-done players still call Champaign home. In this episode of Talk Illini, we break down how Underwood has transformed Illinois into an NBA pipeline, why former players keep coming back, and what this brotherhood culture means for recruiting, roster turnover, and the long-term future of Illini basketball. This program isn’t just winning — it’s building something lasting. 
 

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