CHICAGO, IL – The wait is over. Chicago State women's basketball officially tips off its 2026-27 season Monday evening as the Cougars travel to Normal, Illinois, for an in-state matchup against Illinois State at CEFCU Arena.
Under the direction of head coach Corry Irvin, Chicago State begins a new campaign looking to build momentum and establish its identity against a challenging nonconference opponent. The season opener marks the first of 32 regular-season contests for the Cougars, who will look to carry their preparation into the opening night matchup.
Scouting Illinois State
Illinois State enters the season opener following a strong 2025-26 campaign, finishing with a 24-14 overall record and a 13-7 mark in Missouri Valley Conference play. The Redbirds advanced to the Women's National Invitation Tournament (WNIT) Championship game and secured their sixth consecutive postseason appearance.
Illinois State was picked second in the Missouri Valley Conference Preseason Poll, making Monday's matchup an early opportunity for Chicago State to measure itself against one of the conference's top programs.
The Redbirds return seven players from last season's roster and enter the new campaign looking to build on their postseason success. Illinois State also defeated SIUE, 93-59, in its preseason exhibition contest on October 26.
Players to Watch
Chicago State will look to junior guard Keona McGee to help lead the way. McGee enters her third season with the Cougars after earning NEC Second Team All-Conference honors in 2025-26. Her experience and production will be important as Chicago State begins its new campaign.
Senior guards Chloe Sisco, Paris Bass and Brianna Hill also provide veteran experience, while the Cougars' newcomers will have an opportunity to make an immediate impact.
Series History
Monday's contest marks the seventh meeting between Chicago State and Illinois State. The Redbirds hold a 6-0 advantage in the all-time series, including a 101-52 victory over the Cougars during last season's meeting.
Chicago State will look to change that history as it opens the 2026-27 season on the road.
Looking Ahead
Following Monday's season opener, Chicago State returns home to the Jones Convocation Center for its home opener against Mississippi Valley State on Thursday, November 5. The Cougars will then host Texas State on Saturday, November 7, as the early-season homestand continues.
The Cougars are ready to get the season underway and begin their pursuit of a successful 2026-27 campaign.
Tipoff is set for 6:30 p.m. CT on ESPN+.
