Aside from the revelation of Illinois’ blistering pace of play, we haven’t learned a great deal about the Illini through two games of the 2026-27 season. They have indeed looked spectacular. But they are the No. 3-ranked team in the country. Against Penn and other mid-majors , they’re supposed to look spectacular.

On Tuesday, we’ll finally get a look at Illinois against a worthy foe in a harsh environment – No. 16 Texas Tech in Lubbock . And guess who sits atop the scouting report for the Red Raiders? None other than former Illini Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn. Coach Brad Underwood discussed the matchup in his pregame press conference:

Brad Underwood on Illinois preparing for Texas Tech guard Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn

Nov 4, 2024; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood talks with Illinois Fighting Illini guard Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn (2) during the first half against the Eastern Illinois Panthers at State Farm Center.…