The 37-2 Illini and a Custom Illinois Basketball Jersey

The 2004–05 Illinois men’s basketball team went 37-2, won the Big Ten outright and played North Carolina for the national championship. More than 20 years later, it is still the season many Illini fans have in mind when they order a custom Illinois jersey for basketball. Here is a quick look at that team and some ideas for your own design.

The season

• Record: 37-2, which tied the NCAA record for wins in a season at the time.
• Coach: Bruce Weber, in his second year.
• Big Ten: 15-1 and outright regular-season champions, plus the Big Ten tournament title.
• Starters: Luther Head, Dee Brown, Deron Williams, Roger Powell and James Augustine.

The comeback against Arizona

In the Elite Eight, Illinois fell behind Arizona by 15 points and looked finished. The Illini rallied, with Deron Williams hitting key three-pointers, and won 90-89 in overtime to reach the Final Four. For many fans, that game is the defining memory of the season.

The title game

Illinois reached the national championship game and lost 75-70 to North Carolina.

Jersey ideas from that team

• 37. For the 37 wins, a number any Illini fan will understand.
• 05. For the year of the run.
• 90 or 89. For the final score against Arizona, a deeper cut for fans who watched it live.
• Your own name and number. Always a strong choice for gifts and kids.

Basketball or football style?

Illinois fans support both programs, and a custom jersey can go either way. A basketball jersey is sleeveless and is often worn over a T-shirt, so think about sizing up if you plan to layer. A football jersey, like the split Jeff George style shown above, works well for fall Saturdays and cold nights. If you go to both, choose the sport you’ll watch in person most often.

Orange or navy

Orange and navy are the Illini colors. Orange stands out in an arena full of fans; navy is easier to wear away from games. Both work with a white undershirt for basketball.

Order checklist

1. Pick the sport and style.
2. Choose a number with a story, like 37 or 05.
3. Add your name or a word like “Illini.”
4. Check spelling before you submit.

Design yours

Head to the custom Illinois Fighting Illini basketball jersey page to start, or compare all styles in the custom Illinois Fighting Illini jersey collection.