Missouri vs. Illinois Basketball Series Extended Through 2029
Just ahead of tonight's highly anticipated men's basketball matchup between the University of Missouri and the University of Illinois, the schools agreed to a series extension through 2029. Also like tonight, the city of St. Louis, Mo. will continue to host the Braggin' Rights game throughout that span.
"The Braggin' Rights Game is a staple on Mizzou's calendar every season and a historic rivalry that matters to our fans," said Missouri Director of Athletics Desiree Reed-Francois. "We embrace our opportunities to hold events in St. Louis. That's why it's important to extend the series with Illinois at Enterprise Center so our fans can continue to enjoy one of the most electric atmospheres in all of college basketball."
The non-conference rivalry started in St. Louis in 1980, and besides 2020 (COVID-19 restrictions), it's been played there ever since. Illinois holds a 26-16 advantage in the McBride Homes Braggin' Rights game. The 43rd matchup is set for an 8 p.m. tip-off at the Enterprise Center and will be televised on FS1.
"The St. Louis region has produced outstanding Illini student-athletes for many years, and with thousands of alumni living in the Gateway City, we're pleased to extend Braggin' Rights and continue the holiday hoops tradition," Illinois Director of Athletics Josh Whitman said. "The competitive rivalry we enjoy with Missouri has grown into one of the top annual games on the college basketball calendar, and we're pleased to partner with our friends at Enterprise Center and keep this series in St. Louis through 2029."
8-2 Illinois has the edge ahead of tip-off, as its No. 13 rank in the AP Poll outweighs 7-4 Missouri, who's lost back-to-back contests. However, like all rivalries, season resumés carry very little weight.
