The Illinois Fighting Illini women’s basketball team returns home on Sunday, Feb. 8, to face the USC Trojans in a B1G+ broadcast that will feature an all‑women commentary crew. The game offers a chance for head coach Shauna Green to notch another road win and improve several career milestones.
Recent performance and key contributors
Illinois entered the matchup with a 16‑6 overall record and a 6‑5 mark in Big Ten play. Sophomore forward Berry Wallace has been the offensive engine, averaging 19.4 points and 6.7 rebounds per game—a dramatic jump from 9.0 points per game last season. Freshman forward Cearah Parchment continues to dominate the glass, posting a seventh career double‑double at Washington and averaging 13.0 points with 8.0 rebounds. Guard Destiny Jackson, a freshman, contributes 8.8 points, 4.0 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game, while senior guard Aaliyah Guyton logged a season‑high 31 minutes in the recent Washington win.
Coach Shauna Green’s impact
In her fourth season at Illinois, Green has compiled a 79‑42 record (.661) and a 36‑30 mark in Big Ten competition. Under her leadership, the Illini have consistently limited turnovers, posting averages of 12.4‑12.9 per game—the second‑best rate in the conference for four straight seasons. Free‑throw shooting has also improved dramatically, climbing to an 82.6 % clip this season, the best in Division I.
What’s at stake
A victory over USC would:
- Even the all‑time series with USC at 1‑1 and deliver Green a winning record against the Trojans.
- Mark Illinois’ first home win versus USC.
- Push Green’s overall career record to 236‑117 and improve her Big Ten tally to 37‑30.
- Raise Illinois’ road record under Green to 50‑13 and its all‑time program record to 726‑782.
- Extend the Illini’s unbeaten run against unranked opponents to 14‑2 this season.
Potential outcomes
If the Illini secure the win, the momentum could carry them deeper into conference play and enhance their résumé for an NCAA tournament at‑large bid. A loss, however, would retain USC’s road dominance intact and could force Green to rely on her strong turnover‑control and free‑throw shooting to win subsequent games. Analysts may witness the contest as a litmus test for the team’s ability to execute in high‑pressure environments, especially given the Trojans’ recent three‑game winning streak and the absence of star guard JuJu Watkins.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Illinois play USC?
The game is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 8, at 12 p.m. On the B1G+ broadcast, with radio coverage on the Busey Bank Illini Sports Network (1400 AM/93.9 FM).
What is Illinois’ record against ranked teams under Shauna Green?
Green has guided the Illini to eight wins over top‑25 opponents, the second‑most in program history, and she is 8‑21 against ranked teams overall.
Who are the key statistical leaders for Illinois this season?
Berry Wallace leads the team in scoring (19.4 ppg) and rebounds (6.7 rpg). Cearah Parchment contributes 13.0 ppg and 8.0 rpg, while Destiny Jackson adds 8.8 ppg, 4.0 rpg and 4.9 apg.
What do you think the outcome of the Illinois‑USC showdown will mean for the Illini’s postseason hopes?
