WLS-AM 890 is the University of Illinois’ new radio affiliate and will carry all football and men’s basketball games, as well as the seasonal coaches’ shows, through the 2023-24 season. The five-year agreement, which officially kicks off with the 2019 football season, marks a first for the Fighting Illini and Cumulus Media-owned WLS AM 890.
“We’re thrilled to be a part of this great combination — a program rich in college sports history with a station rich in radio history — serving Chicago, Illinois, and much of the lower 48 for 95 years. We look forward to delivering high-quality game broadcasts and programming for the passionate Illini fanbase, ensuring they won’t miss a key moment of any game, home or away,” said Jeff Hill, VP of Sales for Cumulus Chicago.
“Our new agreement with WLS-AM 890 fulfills our longstanding interest in a strong, dedicated, synergistic radio partner in the Chicago market,” said UI Director of Athletics Josh Whitman. “The Chicago media market is extremely competitive, but now Fighting Illini fans throughout the Midwest can listen to each of our football and men’s basketball games on the powerful signal that WLS brings to the airwaves. We are excited about this new relationship and are grateful to WLS-AM 890 for their partnership, along with our colleagues at Fighting Illini Sports Properties, for brokering this promising new arrangement.”
