Illinois State opens its 2026-27 women’s basketball season Monday at home against Chicago State, beginning a three-game opening week. The Redbirds enter after reaching last season’s WNIT Championship game and return seven players, including Nevaeh Thomas, who impressed in the preseason exhibition with 22 points and 11 rebounds.

By the Numbers
  • Tipoff: 6:30 p.m. CT; watch on ESPN+ or listen on WJBC AM 1230 and the Varsity app.
  • Illinois State went 24-14 overall, 13-7 in Missouri Valley Conference play and 17-1 at home last season.
  • The Redbirds lead the series with Chicago State, 6-0.
  • Illinois State beat SIUE, 93-59, in its Oct. 26 exhibition.
Yes, But

Illinois State was picked second in the Missouri Valley Conference preseason poll, behind two-time defending regular-season and tournament champion Murray State. Chicago State was picked seventh in the Northeast Conference poll and is coming off a 9-23 season.

What's Next

The Redbirds begin a demanding opening week with Monday’s home game, the first of three contests on their schedule. Their early performance will offer a first look at how returning contributors and newcomers fit together.

Bottom Line

Illinois State starts the season with high expectations after a deep postseason run, but Monday’s opener is the first test of whether its returning core and new additions can turn preseason promise into another winning campaign.