NORMAL, Ill. - Four in-state university basketball programs have the opportunity to earn bragging rights to a new trophy as the "Battle for Illinois" rivalry series was introduced today by the respective athletic departments for Bradley, Illinois State, Loyola and Southern Illinois.
"We are excited to join with our other Illinois schools in this 'Battle for Illinois' competition," said Illinois State Athletics Director Larry Lyons. "This series will add an extra level, for what already is a competitive battle between the schools."
The inaugural "Battle for Illinois" competition begins on New Year's Eve, when Illinois State women's basketball plays host to Bradley. Both men's and women's basketball teams for the four universities will accrue points in featured head-to-head competition only. One point will be earned for each win. In the event of a tie, the following will determine the Battle for Illinois winner: 1) Head-to-head record among the tied schools; 2) regular-season conference record; 3) overall regular-season record (conference and non-conference); 4) combined tournament wins; 5) average margin of victory (rivalry series games).
"This series sounds like a lot of fun," commented Illinois State head men's basketball coach Dan Muller. "I have a ton of respect for the other three Missouri Valley teams located in the state of Illinois, and this gives us another prize to compete for."
"We are enthused to hear about the rivalry trophy in place this season," said Illinois State women's basketball coach Kristen Gillespie. "This will add to the fun and excitement of conference play."
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