University of Illinois will go after IHSA basketball state final games...

[EdgyTim]

Story is linked from the Champaign Gazette

But will they be able to hang onto the IHSA state football games once the contract is up in a few years? I keep hearing that they will have a battle on their hands between ISU/NIU among others.

 

[Chicago773]

football to ISU and NIU please

 

[PanthersWildcats86]

If they are doing all four classes each weekend, at least for the boys they will need a larger seating capacity. Realistically the only three arenas in the state which could hold a 4 class finals weekend are SFC, United Center and Allstate Arena. None of those facilities have the convention space attached the IHSA wanted when the finals were moved to Carver. Four classes together means the focus is back on the games, not the circus sideshow - which would be good for the IHSA.

Do they want to keep football? Sure. But for the convention and visitors bureau basketball is a bigger prize - the same teams playing multiple days means a much higher likelihood of hotel stays and multiple restaurant visits, more shopping, etc.