Preview: Illini open 2017-18 season vs. Southern University

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Published Nov 10, 2017

Preview: Illini open 2017-18 season vs. Southern University

Brad Sturdy

Basketball Analyst

MORE: Illinois game notes | Southern game notes | 2017-18 schedule

The Brad Underwood era officially kicks off on Friday evening at the State Farm Center. Illinois is trying to put the bad taste of an exhibition loss a week ago at Eastern Illinois behind them as they are trying to make it back to the NCAA tourney after four years of no tourney bids.

A new coach and a talented young group have given the Illini hope for the future, but in the present the Illini have much to prove. Friday night will be their first opportunity to make a statement.