Illinois Women's Basketball Hosts Rutgers on TikTok Day

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The Illinois Fighting Illini women's basketball team returns to action after a week-long break, hosting the struggling Rutgers Scarlet Knights at the State Farm Center in Champaign. The Illini are coming off a dominant 92-point performance against Wisconsin and hope to carry that momentum into this conference matchup as they continue to make their case for an NCAA Tournament berth. The game will feature a TikTok-themed promotion, including a halftime dance competition.

Why it matters

This game is an important opportunity for the Illini to pick up another Big Ten win and strengthen their NCAA Tournament resume. Rutgers has fallen on hard times in recent seasons, and Illinois has won the last five meetings between the two teams, so the Illini will be heavily favored at home. A convincing victory could help sway the selection committee as the regular season winds down.

The details

Illinois is looking to replicate the offensive firepower and defensive intensity that fueled their blowout win over Wisconsin in their last outing. The Illini will need to limit the impact of Rutgers' leading scorer, junior forward Nene Ndiaye, and control the glass to avoid letting the Scarlet Knights hang around. Rutgers has struggled mightily in Big Ten play this season, sitting at just 1-13 in conference and riding a seven-game losing streak.

• The game will take place on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 6 p.m. CT.
• Illinois is coming off a win over Wisconsin last week.

What’s next

The Illini will look to continue their momentum and pick up another crucial Big Ten win as they make their final push for an NCAA Tournament berth.