CHICAGO (WCIA) – Chris Tamas is getting ready for his ninth season with the Illini in 2025.

Tamas has led Illinois to a 149-94 record through eight years in charge of the program.

When the UI head coach spoke at Big Ten Media Days in Chicago on Monday, much of the talk revolved around replacing some production from 2024. Specifically, Illinois graduate All-American Raina Terry.

However, Tamas is hopeful for his 2025 squad.

“As big of a loss as it may seem on paper, I always think that the gain or the challenge is to try to do it all over again,” said Tamas. “We’ve done that for several years and  and we look forward to continuing to do it again.”

Half of the 2025 roster is new to Illinois, comprised of six freshmen and three transfers.

“Quote here,” Tamas said.

Illinois opens its 2025 campaign on Aug. 29 in Cedar Falls, Iowa, against South Dakota State. The Illini ended their 2024 campaign with a round one loss to Northern Iowa in the NCAA Tournament.