Fighting Illini unveil non-conference schedule; Braggin’ Rights game is Dec. 23

The Illinois Fighting Illini men’s basketball team released its non-conference schedule for the 2015-16 season Tuesday.

The schedule features an ACC-Big Ten challenge matchup with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, the first game back at the newly-renovated State Farm Center.

Illinois opens the season with with six home games to be played at the Prairie Capital Convention Center in Springfield because of the renovation work. The only non-home games in November for the Illini takes them to Providence, R.I., for a game with the Providence Friars and a trip to Niceville, Fla., during Thanksgiving weekend for the final two games of the Emerald Coast Classic against UAB and either Iowa State or Virginia Tech.

The annual Braggin’ Rights game against Missouri is Dec. 23 at Scottrade Center. Illinois has won the last two gamess and 11 of the last 15 to lead the series 29-16.

The full non-conference schedule follows. Game times will be announced a later date. All home games are in Champaign unless otherwise listed

Nov. 8- Illinois-Springfield (exhibition game) in Springfield

Nov. 13- North Florida in Springfield

Nov. 15- North Dakota State in Springfield

Nov. 18- at Providence

Nov. 21- Chattanooga in Springfield

Nov. 23- Chicago State in Springfield

Nov. 27- UAB in Niceville, Fla.

Nov. 28- Iowa State or Virginia Tech in Niceville, Fla.

Dec. 2- Notre Dame

Dec. 5- Western Carolina

Dec. 9- Yale

Dec. 12- UIC in Chicago (United Center)

Dec. 19- South Dakota

Dec. 23- Missouri in St. Louis (Scottrade Center)

This story was originally published July 22, 2015 at 3:20 PM with the headline "Fighting Illini unveil non-conference schedule; Braggin’ Rights game is Dec. 23."