Illinois basketball had a big win at Indiana and followed that up with a heartbreaking loss at Michigan State — exhibiting itself as a top contender and in line for an NCAA Tournament berth.

Coach Brad Underwood has Illinois basketball at 13-5 overall and 5-3 in the Big Ten, jumping three spots to No. 17 in the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll on Monday.

Each week moving forward, the Journal Star will take a look back at the Illini's previous week and assess how their resume has changed and stacks up to the competition.

Illinois basketball results last week

Illinois basketball games this week

Illinois Net rankings : No. 8 | Last week: No. 9

All rankings entering Monday.

Illinois KenPom rankings : No. 9 | Last week No. 13

All rankings entering Monday.

Illinois bracketology projections

Will Illinois basketball make the NCAA Tournament?