The 200 Level with Mike Carpenter: A Fighting Illini Fan Podcast

How Terrence Got His Groove Back (01/30/24)

Illinois starts off a week of two must-win games with an 87-75 win over Ohio State, led by Terrence Shannon's explosive second half and 23 total points. Mike Carpenter and Isaac Ambrose react during an impressive second half as Brad Underwood's Illini showed signs of life on defense and finished at the rim. Marcus Domask added another 23 points, while Ty Rodgers had a 13 and 10 double-double.

A Win is a Win . . . diana (01/27/24)

Winning ugly ain't what it's cracked up to be, but it sure beats losing! Illinois fends off a pesky Indiana team 70-62 thanks to Marcus Domask's 16 points, Luke Goode's timely 3's, and a big shot late by Justin Harmon. Mike Carpenter reacts with frustration and ultimately relief. Brad Underwood's team has some things to clean up before a road test on Tuesday at Ohio State.

Welsh Cryin' (01/24/24)

Illinois gets pantsed in overtime against Northwestern, taking a big hit in the conference title race and missing an opportunity for a big road win. Mike Carpenter and Isaac Ambrose react angrily and remember why Northwestern annoys the living hell out of them.

Three Dog Knight (01/22/24)

Jeremiah was a . . . no, not a bullfrog. But, he is the latest top recruit to sign with Brad Underwood's Illini program. Mike Carpenter recaps a huge five-day swing for Illinois basketball: a win at Michigan, Terrence Shannon Jr.'s return, a win vs. Rutgers, and a commitment from 5-star SG Jeremiah Fears. Seven years into his tenure, Brad Underwood has things rolling in the short-and-long term.

Terrence Shannon Jr. Returns (01/20/24)

Terrence Shannon Jr. has returned to the Illinois basketball team after his temporary restraining order is granted by a federal judge. Mike Carpenter reacts to the huge news, beginning with a breakdown of Judge Lawless' decision. Then, he discusses the myriad of emotions fans will feel when watching TSJ on the court again. Finally, how will his return impact the Illini team on the court?

Jawinless (01/18/24)

Brad Underwood improves to 7-0 over Juwan Howard with an impressive 88-73 Illini win over Michigan. Coleman Hawkins steals the show with 21 points and 10 rebounds, Quincy Guerrier recorded a double-double, and balanced scoring propelled Illinois to a dominant second half. Next up: Rutgers comes to the State Farm Center on Sunday.

Turtle Hex (01/15/24)

Illinois basketball's struggles against Maryland continued, this time with a 76-67 loss in Champaign. Mike Carpenter reacts to the sloppy performance and discusses whether or not this is just a blip on the radar or something to be concerned about. With a road game at Michigan on Thursday, will Brad Underwood's Illini be able to conjure up the focus and execution that landed them a top-ten ranking?

House Sparty (01/12/24)

Illinois improves to 3-1 in Big Ten play with a thrilling 71-68 win over Michigan State. Mike Carpenter reacts to the gritty victory led by an all-around performance from Coleman Hawkins and 15 points each from Marcus Domask and Ty Rodgers. Also, he discusses the latest in the Terrence Shannon Jr. case.