Big game

If you hadn't heard -- or haven't tried to score tickets -- tonight's game is kind of a big deal. Big enough there were more requests for media credentials for an Illinois home game since the 2004-05 season. Big enough the Big Ten Network will broadcast its Tip-Off show live on the court at the Hall (5:30 and 11 p.m.), and the film crew for the BTN's excellent documentary "The Journey" will be on hand. "Since it was announced, there's been a lot of hype, a lot of buzz to have Carolina, one of the top programs in the history of basketball, at your place," coach Bruce Weber said.

Klee