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CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – The Illinois women’s basketball team concluded its season on Monday with a tough defeat at the hands of second-seeded Vanderbilt. Despite the loss, the Illini wrapped up an impressive season with a 22-12 record, marking consecutive NCAA Tournament victories for the first time since the late ’90s.
While the season’s end was undoubtedly disheartening, head coach Shauna Green urged her team to focus on the broader successes achieved. During her four-year tenure, Illinois has made the NCAA Tournament three times, a testament to the program’s growth, even after bidding farewell to a remarkable senior class in 2025.
Reflecting on the team’s journey, Green expressed her excitement about the future. “I’ve never been more thrilled at this moment to look forward to next year,” Green said, highlighting the youth and experience gained by her squad. “Listening to our team in that locker room, hearing the tears and their conversations, it makes me even more optimistic. They’re ready, committed, and eager to improve.”
The Illini’s lineup for the 2025-26 season was notably youthful, featuring two freshmen, four sophomores, and two juniors as key players. This blend of young talent and developing experience promises a bright future for Illinois women’s basketball.
Illinois’ main rotation in the 2025-26 consisted of two freshmen, four sophomores and two juniors.
The Illini were the youngest team, by average roster age, in the 2026 NCAA women’s basketball tournament.