Orange Krush isn’t messing around ahead of Michigan game

Ahead of the biggest game of the season, Orange Krush isn’t messing around.

The Illini’s student section showed up bright and early outside State Farm Center on Friday, with some arriving overnight to secure their spot.

Illinois shared a drone shot of the lines outside the arena Friday afternoon.

Orange Krush didn't come to play today. pic.twitter.com/ahd5EYQfGi
— Illinois Men's Basketball (@IlliniMBB) February 27, 2026

TCR’s Jack Jungmann snapped some photos of the fans ready to welcome Morez Johnson Jr. back to Champaign.

.@TheOrangeKrush is READY 🔶🔷

#10 Illinois hosts #3 Michigan on FOX tonight at 7 PM.

📸: @jack_jungmann pic.twitter.com/hHeQWfQSyY
— The Champaign Room (@Champaign_Room) February 27, 2026

Krush has faced criticism online in recent weeks for its actions — or lack thereof — in the stands. Brad Underwood said this month he backs Krush in a postgame news conference.

Tipoff is at 7 p.m. on Fox.