The Drive on ESPN 93.5

Carson and Evan break down the Illini football schedule. How many wins are on the schedule? We find out Quinn doesn't like popcorn, but she does like crime.

Carson Gourdie is IN STUDIO to kick off the show as we talk about the HOT Cubs and surprising White Sox start. Jaylen Brown traded FOR WHAT???? And the USMNT beats Bosnia to move on to the Round of 16. What is a red card anyways?

Hour 2 Evan and Pierce talk about World cup matches as well as NBA offseason and the upcoming NFL season!

Hour 1 Evan and Pierce talk about game one between Cardinals and Braves, as well as the match-up for USA Mens soccer, and Pierce the Fierce gets a chance at redemption!

Hour 2 Kicks off with Evan and Quinn discussing Cardinals/Cubs and then jumping into the Tuesday Draft! Greatest Iconic Games of all time!

The Drive looks ahead to one of the biggest baseball weekends of the summer with an early breakdown of the St. Louis Cardinals vs. Chicago Cubs Fourth of July showdown at Wrigley Field. Kurtis and Evan discuss the pitching matchups, division implications, and why the rivalry series could help shape the National League race heading into the All-Star break.

Later, the guys hit the latest NBA headlines, including free agency buzz, trade rumors, and the biggest stories around the league following the draft. The hour wraps with a recap of the latest action from the FIFA World...

Illinois basketball continues to generate recruiting buzz as the Illini host a highly touted 5-star prospect for an unofficial visit. Kurtis and Evan break down what the visit could mean for Brad Underwood's program and recap the latest headlines surrounding Illinois athletics. Later, Chris Hightower returns to the studio for another entertaining showdown, challenging Pierce the Intern in a spirited edition of "Name That Coach." Sports talk, recruiting updates, and plenty of laughs fill Hour 1 of The Drive.

On Hour 2, Chris Hightower stays in studio to continue breaking down an exciting NBA Draft for Illinois basketball and what it means for the Illini moving forward. We also preview this weekend's Cardinals vs. Marlins series, discussing what's at stake as St. Louis looks to keep building momentum before a tougher stretch of the schedule. Plus, we have some fun with the news that the Chicago Bears are getting the Hallmark movie treatment, and wrap up the week with our favorite Friday Toasts.

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Former Illini forward Morez Johnson explains why he transferred, saying he "didn't feel comfortable with my future being" at Illinois, and we break down what his comments mean for the program. Plus, Chris Hightower joins us in studio to discuss a memorable NBA Draft night for Illinois basketball, the futures of the Illini draft picks, and what it says about the direction of the program.

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The guys react to Illinois Fighting Illini and North Carolina Tar Heels announcing a matchup in the 2027 Nashville Hoops Showdown, then take a deep dive into Illinois' basketball schedule, biggest challenges, and early expectations for the season while covering the latest Illini headlines.

Plus, United States men's national soccer team looks to make World Cup history, and Evan gets a lesson on common figures of speech in another entertaining edition of the show.

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Former Illini star Marcus Domask joins the show to discuss his basketball journey, life since Illinois, the excitement surrounding the NBA Draft, and his upcoming youth basketball camp. Plus, some breaking news on his infamous Bonneville!

Then, Bulls insider Brian Teague from Chicago State of Mind Sports breaks down the Bulls draft haul, what No. 5 pick Keaton Wagler brings to the Los Angeles Clippers, Kylan Boswell's NBA outlook, and the biggest winners and losers from draft night.

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Illinois basketball insider Sunny Verma from Locked On Illini joins the show to discuss Keaton Wagler's selection by the Los Angeles Clippers with the No. 5 overall pick in the NBA Draft. How does Wagler fit with the Clippers' roster? What expectations should Illini fans have for his rookie season? And what does another top-five pick mean for the future of Illinois basketball?

Later, Pierre Noujaim from Fox9 Minneapolis joins us to break down former Illini star Ayo Dosunmu's new five-year, $112 million contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves. We'll discuss why Minnesota made Ayo a top offseason priority, how...

Illinois star Keaton Wagler officially became the second-highest NBA Draft selection in program history Tuesday night when the Los Angeles Clippers selected him with the No. 5 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. Wagler's remarkable freshman season included consensus All-America honors, Big Ten Freshman of the Year, the Jerry West Award, and a trip to the Final Four. He now joins an organization looking to build around a talented young core and is the highest Illini draft pick since Deron Williams went No. 3 overall in 2005.

We'll break down why the Clippers viewed Wagler as the perfect fit at...

Hour 2 of The Drive opened with Illinois football adding another piece to its 2027 recruiting class, securing a commitment from defensive back Tyrone Howard Jr. The talented secondary prospect gives head coach Bret Bielema and the Illini another athletic defender as the program continues to build momentum on the recruiting trail. 

The show also highlighted new Illinois wide receiver commit Brody Knowles after he received a video message from NBA legend Dirk Nowitzki. The unique connection sparked conversation about Knowles' athletic profile and why national figures continue to take notice of the Illini's incoming talent. Illinois' recruiting efforts u...

Hour 1 of The Drive features an in-depth conversation with Minnesota Star Tribune reporter Chris Hine on former Illinois star Ayo Dosunmu and his massive new five-year, $112 million contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Hine explained how Minnesota's trade of Julius Randle created the salary flexibility needed to retain Dosunmu and why the franchise views him as a long-term core piece alongside Anthony Edwards after his breakout 2025-26 season.

The show also examined the latest buzz surrounding Illinois freshman sensation Keaton Wagler ahead of tonight's NBA Draft. With most mock drafts placing Wagler firmly in the lottery, discussion centered...

The Cardinals enter a pivotal point in their season as they begin a six-game stretch against the Arizona Diamondbacks and Miami Marlins, two series they may need to win before facing a significantly tougher schedule leading into the All-Star Break. The discussion centered on St. Louis' playoff positioning, the importance of taking advantage of favorable matchups, and how a strong week could shape the club's outlook for the second half of the season.

The show also highlighted another historic achievement by soccer superstar Lionel Messi, who added yet another milestone to his legendary résumé during the 2026 FI...

Michigan basketball was rocked by the stunning news that national championship-winning head coach Dusty May is leaving for the Dallas Mavericks, creating a massive shakeup across the Big Ten and college basketball landscape. Reports indicate May is headed to Dallas after leading Michigan to the 2026 national title, opening a transfer portal window and leaving uncertainty around one of the conference's top programs.

Alex Kyi of Armchair Illini joined the show to break down the ripple effects of May's departure, including how it could impact the Big Ten title race and potentially benefit programs like Illinois Fighting Illini...

Hour 2 featured a deep dive into the ever-changing Big Ten football landscape with Ravi Lulla of Hurrdat Sports. Ravi examined which conference programs made the biggest strides during the offseason, which contenders may have taken a step back, and where Illinois fits into the 2026 race. The conversation focused on roster development, transfer portal additions, coaching continuity, and the realistic expectations for Bret Bielema's Illini entering a season with heightened expectations.

The guys also continued reacting to Team USA's impressive 2-0 World Cup victory over Australia. The Americans moved closer to advancing from Group D thanks to another...

The Fighting Illini continue to build one of the nation's toughest non-conference schedules as Illinois and Texas Tech officially move forward with a marquee home-and-home basketball series. The grumbles of Big Ten schools NOT playing Texas Tech, post-Brendan Sorsby, amounts to nothing.

Illinois hosted the first matchup in Champaign, with a return trip to Lubbock set for the 2026-27 season, giving Brad Underwood another high-profile test against a perennial Big 12 contender.

On the international stage, Team USA delivered an impressive World Cup performance, defeating Australia 2-0 in Group D action. The Americans improved their position...

Hour 2 of The Drive featured a deep dive into Illinois football's evolving 3-3-5 defensive scheme, with a special focus on the safety positions and the versatile "Chief" role. The guys discussed how the position functions as a hybrid defender, blending responsibilities of a nickelback, linebacker, and safety while creating flexibility for defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck's aggressive approach. They also examined which current Illini players are best suited for the role and how the position could impact Illinois' defensive success in 2026.

The show also previewed Team USA's critical FIFA World Cup matchup against Australia. Kurtis and Evan...

On Hour 1 of The Drive, Brian Teague of Chicago State of Mind Sports joined the show to discuss Illinois football's newest commitments and recruiting momentum. Teague explained why four-star wide receiver Bennett Konkey reminds him of former Illini standout Pat Bryant, citing similarities in physicality, route-running, and the ability to become a reliable target in critical situations. He also weighed in on the future of Illinois basketball star Keaton Wagler, explaining why he doesn't believe the Chicago Bulls are the best fit for the talented prospect.

Brian also broke down the introductory press conference of new Chicago...

Illinois basketball's non-conference schedule continued to take shape as the Fighting Illini added matchups against in-state foe Eastern Illinois and Ivy League contender Penn. The games provide Brad Underwood's squad with opportunities to build its résumé while giving fans a closer look at another highly anticipated Illinois roster.

In Major League Baseball, trade deadline speculation heats up as the Cardinals weigh whether starting pitcher Dustin May could become one of the most coveted arms on the market. After another dominant outing against San Diego, the question becomes whether St. Louis views May as a key piece of...

Illinois football continued its strong 2027 recruiting momentum by securing a commitment from 4-star wide receiver Bennett Konkey and flipping 3-star running back Steven Alexis, giving Bret Bielema's staff two major offensive additions for the future. The duo adds speed, playmaking ability, and depth to an already impressive Illini recruiting class.

On the diamond, the Cardinals received a dominant performance from pitcher Dustin May, who shut down the Padres lineup and delivered one of St. Louis' best starting pitching outings of the season.

Meanwhile, the Cubs earned a dramatic 5-4 comeback win over the Rockies behind...

Hour 2 of The Drive is packed with major headlines from across the sports world. The guys preview a crucial series for the St. Louis Cardinals against the San Diego Padres and break down what the Chicago Cubs need to do against the Colorado Rockies.

They also react to the Carolina Hurricanes capturing the Stanley Cup and discuss what their championship run means for the NHL landscape. Plus, a look at United States men's national soccer team and Team USA's performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including early takeaways and expectations moving forward.

The show wraps...

The Drive kicks off the week with a championship celebration as St. Joseph-Ogden baseball head coach Josh Haley joins the show to discuss the Spartans' incredible run to the IHSA Class 2A State Championship, the key moments from the title game, and what the historic achievement means for the program and community.

The guys also break down the New York Knicks winning their first NBA championship in decades, what it means for the league, and where the defeated San Antonio Spurs go from here.

Plus, the latest Illinois Fighting Illini football and Illinois Fighting Illini...

Tristan Thomas joins the show to discuss St. Joseph-Ogden's run in IHSA baseball, the impact of quarterback commit Dane Eisenmenger on the future of Illinois football, and settles the score on whether he or Evan Stone would come out on top in the upcoming charity basketball showdown.

Plus, we preview a weekend interleague matchup between the St. Louis Cardinals and Minnesota Twins, as well as the Chicago Cubs taking on the San Francisco Giants. We wrap up the week with another edition of Friday Toasts, celebrating the people, teams, and moments that deserve a raise of the...

Illinois quarterback commit Dane Eisenmenger meets the media for the first time and discusses why he chose the Illini, his fit in Barry Lunney Jr.'s offense, and what he hopes to bring to the future of Illinois football.

Plus, Jordan Sigler from Chi City Sports joins the show to break down the next steps in the Bears' proposed move to Indiana, the political and NFL hurdles that remain, impressions from Bears minicamp, the growing buzz around Caleb Williams, and his recent "war of words" with Micah Parsons.

We also hit the latest Illini and...

Sunny Verma from Locked On Illini joins the show to discuss why former Illinois star Keaton Wagler potentially landing with the Chicago Bulls could be an ideal situation for both sides. 

The conversation also turns to the latest Illinois football and basketball recruiting developments as Bret Bielema and Brad Underwood continue building momentum on the recruiting trail. From quarterback commitments to basketball targets, we discuss the names Illini fans need to know.

Later, we take a trip down memory lane and draft our Top 10 Players of the Tim Beckman Era at Illinois. Despite the struggles o...

The New York Knicks are one win away from their first NBA title since 1973 after completing the largest comeback in NBA Finals history Wednesday night. New York erased a 29-point deficit and stunned the San Antonio Spurs 107-106 in Game 4 at Madison Square Garden. OG Anunoby delivered the game-winning tip-in with 1.2 seconds remaining, capping a historic rally that saw the Knicks outscore San Antonio 58-30 in the second half.

Carson Gourdie  from WICS-TV & Fox-Illinois breaks down what Illini Football landing Tolono Unity quarterback Dane Eisenmenger means for the future of Bret Bielema's quarterback room, how recent commitments a...

The 2026 NBA Finals shift into a pivotal Game 4 tonight as the New York Knicks look to take a commanding 3-1 series lead over the San Antonio Spurs. After San Antonio's 115-111 win in Game 3, all eyes are on Victor Wembanyama, who dominated with 32 points and completely changed the series with his rim protection and ability to control the paint. The Knicks still lead 2-1, but another Wemby masterpiece could swing the momentum back to San Antonio heading home.

If the Spurs ultimately win this series, it's hard to see anyone other than Victor Wembanyama taking home Finals...

Kyle Tausk of Illini Inquirer breaks down why the addition of Lincoln Williams was perfect timing for Brad Underwood and Illinois Basketball after the late recruiting cycle. Williams finished his high school career with 1,853 points and gives the Illini another talented in-state guard with scoring ability and defensive upside.

Plus, Kyle reviews the impressive start by Illinois signee Quentin Coleman with Team USA at the FIBA U18 AmeriCup, where the freshman forward opened tournament play with an 11-point, 15-rebound double-double and showcased the athleticism that has Illini fans excited.

Also, the guys discuss Tolono Unity...

Alex Kyi from Armchair Illini joins the show to break down what Illinois is getting in newly-committed quarterback Sladen Shack, why the coaching staff made him a priority, and what stands out most about his game. We also discuss four-star basketball recruit Lincoln Williams, how his recruitment unfolded, and what his commitment means for Brad Underwood's future roster plans.

Plus, it's Tuesday Draft Day as we build our lists of the Best Sports Video Games of All Time. From NCAA Football and Madden to NBA Jam, MVP Baseball, and more, which classics make the cut?

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06/09/26 Hour 1: Illinois Football lands 3-Star Quarterback Sladen Shack - what you need to know; Cardinals vs Mets and Cubs vs Rockies Preview

Illinois football added another piece to its future quarterback room as three-star 2027 signal caller Sladen Shack from Brandon, Mississippi announced his commitment to Bret Bielema and the Illini. The 6-foot-1, 211-pound quarterback chose Illinois over offers from Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, UConn, South Florida, East Carolina and others. Shack is rated as one of Mississippi's top prospects in the Class of 2027 and becomes Illinois' quarterback commitment for the cycle after the staff reset its recruiting...

Brian Teague from Chicago State of Mind Sports joins the show to break down the latest developments in the Bears stadium saga and explains why he believes the franchise ultimately won't be relocating to Indiana despite recent headlines and speculation. What hurdles remain, and what could keep the Bears rooted in Illinois?

The Illini continue to build for the future with the commitment of Kankakee star Lincoln Williams. The highly regarded prospect adds another talented in-state piece to Brad Underwood's recruiting efforts and gives Illinois fans plenty to be excited about moving forward.

Plus, we...

The future continues to look bright in Champaign as Illinois basketball adds one of the state's rising stars, Kankakee standout Lincoln Williams. Williams turned heads throughout his high school career, including a record-setting 44-point performance that broke Kankakee's single-game scoring mark, and now gives the Illini another talented in-state piece for the future.

On the football side, Bret Bielema and his staff continue to build recruiting momentum, adding three more commitments as Illinois looks to follow up what has become one of the strongest recruiting stretches in program history. The Illini have elevated their recruiting profile significantly...

The Bears-to-Indiana conversation continues as Chris Kwiecinski from Fox 32 joins us with the latest from Halas Hall following Thursday's bombshell announcement from Chairman George McCaskey and President/CEO Kevin Warren. What hurdles remain before the Bears can officially call Indiana home? Chris brings the latest reporting and analysis.

Then, Kurtis takes over the classroom and gives Evan a crash course in modern baseball statistics. Which advanced metrics actually matter? Which ones are overrated? And can analytics really tell us more than the traditional numbers fans grew up with?

Plus, it's Friday, which means it's time...

The Chicago Bears took their biggest step yet toward leaving Illinois, as Chairman George McCaskey and President/CEO Kevin Warren announced that the team's Board of Directors has voted to advance plans for a new stadium project in Hammond, Indiana. While an exact site has not yet been selected, the vote marks the first time the Bears' board has formally approved a stadium location path, signaling Indiana has become the franchise's preferred option.

We'll break down what this means for Bears fans, whether Illinois still has any chance of keeping the team, and if "The Hammond Bears"...

Hall of Fame baseball writer Rob Rains joins the show to discuss the Cardinals' recent surge and why this team appears to be playing with a loose, confident attitude. He shares his thoughts on what's fueling the club's success, the impact of manager Oliver Marmol, and identifies the player who has emerged as his biggest surprise star so far this season.

The NFL rumor mill is buzzing again as speculation grows about a potential return of Aaron Donald to the Los Angeles Rams. Is there any chance the future Hall of Famer comes out of retirement, and...

Isaac Ambrose joins the show to break down Bret Bielema's recent comments directed toward Notre Dame Athletic Director Pete Bevacqua and what they reveal about college football scheduling, playoff access, and the changing power structure of the sport.

The conversation then shifts to Illinois basketball and a debate that continues to gain steam in Champaign: has Brad Underwood already become the greatest coach in Illini history? With multiple Big Ten titles, deep NCAA Tournament runs, and the program's sustained success, the case for Underwood is stronger than ever. How does he stack up against Illinois legends such...

It's never too early to talk All-Stars! With the season approaching the midway point, we reveal our picks for the 2026 MLB All-Star Game. Who deserves a starting spot? Which players are having breakout seasons? And who are the biggest snubs if the voting ended today? We go position-by-position through our American League and National League selections.

Then it's time for another edition of Draft Day. This week's topic: The Most Hated Athletes in Sports History. From controversial stars and notorious villains to athletes fans loved to boo, we draft the biggest lightning rods sports has ever seen...