Illini to make annual trip to the United Center

Despite his desire for more games in Champaign, Groce - like his boss, athletic director Mike Thomas who said during his introductory press conference that he wanted Illinois to be "king of Chicago" - understands the importance of the yearly trip to the Windy City.

"I like it. I love going up there," Groce said. "Obviously, it's our largest alumni base. We're excited to go to Chicago. It's a huge area, not only for alumni but from a recruiting standpoint. We're excited for the opportunity to play up there. Our guys are looking forward to it.

"We want to keep doing it for sure, a lot like the Missouri game. I think they're two games that really make a lot of sense for us."

Jeremy Werner