It is the Illini's longest winning streak against a basketball opponent since they started playing the game in 1906

Twenty straight! That's right, 20 and counting against Minnesota. That's more than the 16-game streaks against Northwestern twice (1947-55 and 1984-91) and Wisconsin (1981-89). In another era, Illinois won 26 of 27 against Butler, and 21 of 22 vs. Chicago, but never 20 straight.

"All streaks come to an end sooner or later. I'm sure they talk about it. I hope it's no factor," said UI coach Bruce Weber, aware that both teams carry surprising 17-3 records into Williams Arena on Thursday (8 p.m., Big Ten Network).

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