The Drive with Lon Tay & Derek Piper

Steve Greenberg from the Chicago Sun-Times joined the show to discuss the red-hot Chicago Cubs and what's fueling their incredible winning streak. Later, Ravi Lulla from Hurrdat Sports broke down the Big Ten Conference football offseason, debating which programs made the biggest moves and who came out on top heading into 2026. The hour wrapped up with the crew's weekly Friday Toasts, celebrating the best moments from the week in sports and beyond. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook!

Kyle Tausk from Illini Inquirer joined the show to break down a busy offseason for Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball, including the latest on roster movement and high school recruiting targets. The guys also discussed the impact of Friday night games on Illinois Fighting Illini football and what it means for fans and national exposure. Plus, a full preview of Game 3 between the Minnesota Timberwolves and San Antonio Spurs, including key matchups and what Minnesota needs to do to regain control of the series.

Could Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball really cut down the nets in 2027? National title expectations are already building in Champaign and one analyst says it will happen. Who do they think Illinois will beat in Detroit next year and why? The conversation also shifts to Illinois Fighting Illini football and whether a 9-win season is realistic heading into the fall. Plus, the San Antonio Spurs completely dominated the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 2, evening the series in emphatic fashion. Can the "Champaign T-Wolves" bounce back at home? Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook.        

The NCAA officially unveiled its new-look March Madness bracket, sparking plenty of debate about the changes and what they could mean for teams heading into next season's tournament. Who loves it and who hates it? Jacob Infante joins the show to break down the latest around the Chicago Bears and NFL free agency, including whether pass rusher Joey Bosa could realistically end up in Chicago. Plus, the Chicago Cubs continue their incredible run, staying red-hot over their last 20 games as they surge up the standings. How good has the hitting been while injuries to the pitching staff mount? Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook!      

Hour 2 centers on Ayo Dosunmu returning for the Timberwolves matchup against the Spurs, adding a big boost to Minnesota's lineup. The guys also dive into rumors that the Chicago Bears are favorites to land David Njoku, and wrap things up by sharing stories and listener reactions about the best sporting events they've ever seen in person. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

Hour 1 features Illini men's tennis head coach Brad Dancer previewing the Super Regional matchup against Ohio State. The show also dives into the Thunder's win over the Lakers, which sparks another round of the never-ending Jordan vs. LeBron debate. Plus, Evan stirs things up with some takes involving NBA legends Jerry West and Bob Cousy.   Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

The Michael Jordan vs. LeBron James debate heats up ahead of the Lakers vs. Thunder matchup as listeners flood the show with passionate and heated texts defending both NBA legends. Plus, the Tuesday Draft returns with the crew picking the best fictional moms from TV, movies, and pop culture. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

We discuss the return of Tom Michael to the University of Illinois as the new Deputy Director of Athletics and what it means for Illini athletics moving forward. Chris Hine from the Minnesota Star Tribune retutns to the show to break down the Minnesota Timberwolves stealing Game 1 from the Spurs, plus Terrence Shannon Jr.'s confidence after saying he plans to dunk on Victor Wembanyama. We also recap big wins for both the Cardinals and Cubs as both teams continue strong starts to the season. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

Hour 2 featured Chris Block breaking down Golden Tempo's victory in the Kentucky Derby and explaining why he believed the horse had a real chance to win heading into the race. Later, Jeff Jones joined the show to discuss the recent play of the St. Louis Cardinals and preview their upcoming series against the Milwaukee Brewers. The hour also included a fun conversation debating whether adults still wear sports jerseys and which ones are acceptable to own. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook.

Hour 1 recapped a huge weekend for Illinois Fighting Illini sports, highlighting some of the biggest performances and storylines from across the university. The Men's Golf team prepares for the NCAA Tournament, Tennis advances in the Super Regional, baseball prepares to wrap up the season, softball finishes theirs, and track & field prepare for the regular season finale. The show also handed out one-month report card grades for the St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Cubs, breaking down what's gone right — and wrong — through the first month of the MLB season. Plus, Evan Stone shared his thoughts on all things Star Wars in a fun conversation about the legendary franchise and "May The Fourth Be With You."

Hour 2 featured Carson Gourdie breaking down Bret Bielema's latest press conference and why Illinois freshmen could see significant playing time this season. The guys also continued the discussion surrounding Andrej Stojaković and what his NBA Draft decision means moving forward. Don't worry - he's most likely coming back. Later, the crew made their picks for the Kentucky Derby before wrapping up the week with another edition of Friday Toasts! Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

Hour 1 features Michael Rand from the Minneapolis Star Tribune breaking down Terrence Shannon Jr.'s huge performance for the Timberwolves in their win over the Denver Nuggets. The guys discussed what Shannon's breakout night means moving forward for the T-Wolves in the NBA Playoffs and why Illini fans should be excited about his NBA future. Later, horse racing expert Chris Block stopped by with everything listeners need to know ahead of the Kentucky Derby, including top storylines, contenders, and betting insight for one of racing's biggest weekends. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook.

Hour 2 dives into how the Chicago Bears performed in the 2026 NFL Draft, now that we're one week removed. The guys also get into the impact that Illini great Ayo Dosunmu has had on the Minnesota Timberwolves during their playoff push, talk the GOAT debate between LeBron James and Michael Jordan, and talk about the new additions to the Illini Hall of Fame!

Hour 1 featured a conversation with Pierre Noujaim from FOX 9 Minneapolis, who discussed Ayo Dosunmu's impact with the Minnesota Timberwolves during the NBA Playoffs and what his continued development means moving forward. The show also highlighted the newly announced Illinois Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2026, recognizing some of the top names and achievements in Illini sports history.

Hour 2 dives into the NCAA Tournament expanding from 68 to 76 teams and whether the change will actually improve the event. We also react to listener texts on the topic and wrap things up by revealing the results of our Tuesday Draft, highlighting the best places to drink a beer! Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

Hour 1 focuses on the latest developments surrounding Andrej Stojakovic declaring for the NBA Draft and what it means for fans moving forward. The show also covers key Illini headlines and wraps up with an update on the Cubs, Cardinals, and the latest movement in the NL Central.

Brian Teague from Chicago State of Mind Sports joins the show to break down the impact of the Illinois Fighting Illini football at the NFL Draft! Plus, Brian grades the Chicago Bears draft. Which player do he and Evan completely disagree on? Plus, it's time for the Tuesday Draft as the crew has some fun ranking the best places to drink a beer! Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

We're back with a packed hour, highlighted by a strong showing from Fighting Illini football at the NFL Draft over the weekend. The guys also break down draft grades for the Chicago Bears and what it all means moving forward. Plus, a recap of The Oskees at State Farm Center. Intern Coop was on The Orange Carpet all night. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

WCIA 3 Sports Director Glenn Kinley joins the show to discuss Illinois Fighting Illini players preparing for the NFL Draft, along with a look at the Illinois Marathon and other local sports storylines. The hour also features “Around the Bases,” breaking down the latest headlines from Major League Baseball. It all wraps up with Friday Toasts! Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

Jacob Infante joins the show to break down the Chicago Bears and their outlook heading into the NFL Draft, including key needs and potential targets. It's a must-listen conversation! The hour also features the latest Illini headlines, keeping you up to date on what's happening around campus. Plus, the crew has some fun with “Name A Forgettable Franchise,” sparking plenty of debate and throwback discussion. Folow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

Zac Braunagel from Illini wrestling joins the show to discuss competing at the US Open Championships and what the experience means for his growth on the mat. The conversation then shifts back to more NFL Draft storylines and key updates as the event approaches. The hour wraps up with a recap of the Chicago Cubs pulling off an exciting walk-off win and "Things you can't say at The Masters!"

An Illini legend helps us kick off the show! Kurt Kittner joins us to share insight on his NFL Draft experience while also discussing Luke Altmyer and his development. Later, Sean Hammond from the Chicago Tribune breaks down the latest NFL Draft storylines and what to expect from the Chicago Bears. The hour delivers a strong mix of local perspective and league-wide draft analysis. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

Brian Walton from The Cardinal Nation joins the show to break down the early season success of the Redbirds and what's fueling their strong start. He also dives into the Cardinals' farm system, highlighting key prospects and overall organizational depth. The conversation gives a full picture of both the present and future of St. Louis baseball. Plus, we roll into “From The Office of Evan Stone – NFL Draft Edition,” with a full Mock Draft of the First Round. Plus our takes, storylines, and a fun spin on everything surrounding the draft. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

Kyle Tausk from Illini Inquirer joins the show to break down Illinois' 2026–27 roster, including potential breakout candidates and key pieces to watch. We also hit the latest Illini headlines and recap Tuesday Draft with listener reactions. The hour wraps with your texts, featuring fan takes and questions on Illinois basketball. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

Brian Teague from Chicago State of Mind Sports joins the show to break down the latest surrounding the Chicago Bears and preview the upcoming NFL Draft. The hour also features a fun Tuesday Draft with listener Lindy, as the guys make their picks for the best Minor League Baseball team names. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook!      

Jeff Jones from the Belleville News-Democrat joins the show to break down the early-season success of the Cardinals and what's fueling their strong start. Dave Wishnowsky also stops by to discuss the latest developments in the Illini basketball offseason and what it means for the program moving forward. The hour wraps up with a look at the latest Illini headlines. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

Hour 2 dives into how the National League Central has emerged as one of baseball's most competitive divisions early in the season. The show also hits key headlines from the NBA Playoffs, Stanley Cup Playoffs, and the upcoming NFL Draft. Plus, listeners get a chance to win tickets to see Kylie Morgan live at The City Center in Champaign! Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

Quentin Coleman officially commits to the Illini and Brandon Lee has entered the Transfer Portal, sparking the question of whether the roster is now fully set heading into next season? The text line lights up. Meanwhile, Evan "Stone Cold" steals the spotlight by dominating the show's WrestleMania prediction contest with an impressive performance. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

Sunny Verma from Locked On Illini joins the show to break down Andrej Stojakovic's return and what to expect from Illinois' incoming freshman class. The guys also have some fun with Evan “Stone Cold's” WrestleMania predictions, plus another edition of Around the Bases. And as always, they wrap things up with Friday Toasts. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

Big news for Illinois basketball as Andrej Stojakovic is officially back with the Illini, giving the roster a major boost heading into next season. Brad Sturdy joins the show to break down what Stojakovic's return means, along with insight on newcomer Zavier Zens and how he fits into the program. Plus, more reaction and analysis on what this all means for Illinois moving forward.

Tristan Thomas joined the show to break down the returning Illini players and the impact they'll have heading into next season. He also reflected on Ty Rodgers' legacy, emphasizing his role as a true “culture guy” during his time at Illinois, while touching on Illini spring football storylines. The hour rounded out with NFL Draft discussion, what is the best fit for Luke Altmyer in the NFL, and the latest “Etched in Stone” bets.

Big news for Illinois as the Ivisic twins and Jake Davis are officially returning, giving Brad Underwood a strong core heading into next season. The announcement came last night at Underwood's “Kickin' Cancer” event. The trio join a returning David Mirkovic, but what will Andrej Stojakovic do? How could John Blackwell fit into the equation?  Meanwhile, Ty Rodgers has entered the transfer portal, adding an interesting wrinkle to the Illini's offseason outlook. We break it all down this hour. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook!

Carson Gourdie joined the show to preview Brad Underwood's “Coaches vs. Cancer” event, highlighting its importance to the community and the continued support from the Illinois basketball program. Gourdie also shared the latest football recruiting nuggets, offering insight into prospects and the direction of the Illini's future roster. The hour also features additional discussion on David Mirkovic's return to Illinois and how his presence strengthens the team heading into the 2026 season.

llinois basketball got a major boost as David Mirkovic announced his return to Champaign, adding experience and stability to the Illini frontcourt for the 2026 season. Brian Teague of Chicago State of Mind Sports joined the show to discuss the impact of the news and how it strengthens Illinois' outlook in the Big Ten. The hour also featured Bill Koch of The Providence Journal, who broke down transfer Stefan Vaaks and what his skill set and Big East experience will bring to the Illini. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

Evan and Kyle discuss a wide variety of topics including trending sports headlines, Illini spring football, the college basketball transfer portal and much more.

Illini Inquirer's Kyle Tausk is in studio filling in for Kurtis to discuss Illini basketball's offseason and retention & transfer portal efforts. Later, Illinois women's basketball head coach Shauna Green joins the show to talk about her team's offseason.

Ravi Lulla of Hurrdat Sports joins the show to break down the latest movement in the Big Ten Transfer Portal and what it means for teams across the conference. Alex Kyi from Armchair Illini also stops by to discuss Stefan Vaaks' transfer to Illinois, along with insights on John Blackwell and Quinten Coleman. The conversation wraps up with expectations and outlook for Illinois basketball heading into the 2026 season. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

WCIA Sports Director Glenn Kinley joins the show to break down the latest developments in the Transfer Portal, including what it could mean for Illinois basketball. He also shares insight on the potential impact of John Blackwell, Keaton Wagler's future, and more. The conversation shifts to Illinois football, highlighting key storylines to watch this offseason. The hour wraps up with our Friday Toasts! Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

New Illinois basketball commit Quentin Coleman joins the show to discuss his decision to become an Illini and what he brings to the program. The hour also features the latest Illini headlines, keeping fans up to date on all the news surrounding the university. In addition, the show debuts a brand-new segment, “Around the Bases,” highlighting key storylines from the world of baseball. It's a packed opening hour filled with insight, news, and exciting new content for listeners.

WCIA 3 Sports' Tristan Thomas breaks down the latest developments in the college basketball transfer portal. He discussed key Illini-related storylines, including the potential impact and future of Keaton Wagler, as well as the buzz surrounding John Blackwell. The hour wrapped up with the results of The Masters Draft. Kurtis needed A LOT of help from the text line, but was it enough to beat Evan and Coop?  Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

Principia high school head coach Jay Blossom is a multi-time state champion and has sent several players to the NCAA. He joined the show to discuss Illini recruit Quentin Coleman, calling him “the best player he's ever coached” and highlighting what makes Coleman such a special talent. The conversation then shifted to the gridiron, as Carson Gourdie provided updates and insights on both Illinois and Eastern Illinois spring football. Carson covers key storylines, player development, and what fans should watch as the spring progresses. Dr. Daniel Thompson shared his perspective on 5-star transfer Divine Bourrage and the impact the highly touted addition could have on the Illinois women's basketball program.  Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

The Great Kyle Tausk from Illini Inquirer joins the show to break down the latest on Keaton Wagler's future and what lies ahead for Illinois in the Transfer Portal. The conversation dives into potential roster movement and how the Illini could reshape the team this offseason. Tausk provides insight into key targets and overall expectations for the program moving forward. Later, the guys switch gears for their Tuesday Draft, selecting golfers competing in The Masters. Kurtis has no idea who to draft. Will the text line come through to save him? Or is this a two man race between Evan and Cooper? Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

Illinois head coach Brad Underwood joins the show to reflect on the Illini's Final Four run, discuss plans for the Transfer Portal, and promote the upcoming Coaches vs. Cancer event. The conversation highlights both the success of the season and the challenges of maintaining momentum heading into the offseason. Brad Sturdy also joins to provide insight and analysis on the current state of the program. The guys dive into roster questions, including whether Keaton Wagler could return. It's a packed hour focused on the future of Illinois basketball. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.      

The Transfer Portal officially opens tonight at Midnight. How will Illinois and Brad Underwood approach the portal and what areas the Illini need to address most? Will the Ivisic Twis, David Mirkovic, and Andrej Stojakovic be on the roster next year? We also explore the possibility of Wisconsin's John Blackwell making his way to Champaign and how he could fit into the roster. Plus, we react to a heated debate between Jay Bilas and John Calipari over the NCAA and the impact of NIL money. It's a forward-looking hour packed with roster speculation and big-picture conversation around the future of college athletics. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.    

We react to Illinois' tough loss to the Conn Huskies in the Final Four, ending a memorable run for the Illini. Brian Teague joins the show to break down what went wrong and where the game slipped away. Where do the Illini go from here and how does new commit Quentin Coleman fit into the equation. The conversation also shifts to the news of Angel Reese being traded and what it means for her future. Plus, a look ahead at Gabe Jacas and his outlook in the upcoming NFL Draft. It's a packed hour covering the Illini, pro basketball headlines, and football storylines.

Hour 2 continues the Final Four preview of Illinois vs. UConn, diving deeper into matchups and keys to the game. The show also highlights the ongoing back-and-forth between Dan Dakich and Illini fans, adding some heat to the conversation. The guys give their score predictions and expectations for how the game will play out. Plus, the hour wraps up with the always-entertaining Friday Toasts. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.      

Part 1 of our Illinois vs. UConn Final Four preview, breaking down the key storylines heading into the matchup. The show features live updates straight from Lucas Oil Stadium, capturing the atmosphere and latest developments. Cooper O'Kelly checks in on-site with insights and observations from the scene. Chris Hightower also joins to add analysis, energy, and fan perspective ahead of the big game. Plus, Quentin Coleman committing to Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball is a HUGE pickup, as the four-star, top-35 guard brings scoring ability and perimeter shooting to the future backcourt. At 6'4” with a smooth offensive game, Coleman can stretch the floor and develop into a key playmaker, helping Illinois reload and stay competitive in the Big Ten. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

A familiar voice to listeners is back in-studio to talk all things Illinois and their Final Four run - Lon Tay! "Uncle" Lon gives us his insight and perspective on the program's biggest moment. The text line lights up with questions, we find out what Lon REALLY thinks of the show, and Kurtis debuts a new song in Lon's honor. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook.

Tom Fornelli of CBS Sports joins the show to break down Illinois' Final Four run and what's made this team so dangerous. He shares insight on the matchup ahead and how the Illini stack up against the nation's best. Brian Teague of Chicago State of Mind Sports also weighs in, live from Indianapolis, with his perspective on Illinois' path and key players. Both guests highlight the excitement surrounding the program as it competes on college basketball's biggest stage. Follow The Drive on X, Instagram, and Facebook.

"The Great" Kyle Tausk from Illini Inquirer joins the show to break down Illinois vs. UConn in the Final Four, diving into key matchups and what the Illini need to do to advance. He shares insight on tempo, defensive challenges, and where Illinois may have an edge. The conversation also highlights standout players and the pressure of the moment on both sides. Plus, we announce an Illinois autographed jersey giveaway with details on how listeners can win. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

It's an Illini ‘05 reunion as Roger Powell Jr. and Dee Brown join us for a full hour to relive their unforgettable run to the national title game. They reflect on their playing days in Champaign, the chemistry and toughness that defined that team, and what made that group so special. Both also dive into their coaching careers and how their experiences at Illinois continue to shape their approach to the game today. Plus, they compare that 2005 squad to this year's Illini team and discuss whether this group has what it takes to make a similar championship run. Follow The Drive on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.