Champaign- ESPN College Gameday took over the University of Illinois campus to highlight Saturday's big basketball game.
ESPn only visits eight college campuses for this pregame show.
This game is going to showcase the Illinois program and of course the Orange Krush.
4,134 of them showed up bright and early Saturday morning to get a close spot for the college pregame show.

ESPN gets a first taste of what the house of "Paign," is all about.

"We're in Big Ten country and we're hear to stay," said Spencer Turkin.

"In the years I've been coming to Assembly Hall, there's not been a fan base that's impressed me more than the Orange Krush," said Jay Bilas.

The orange faithful gathered around the stadium hours before the cameras starting rolling.

"We've been here since 1:50 this morning," said Ruston Lindsey.

Just to get the best seat in the house.

"It's a once in a lifetime opportunity to come watch us beat Michigan State tonight, so it's a great opportunity for the university and for us to get some national exposure," said Lindsey.

A game that's labeled as a must win for the Fighting Illini.
As they try to close the gap between their rivals to the north, and boost their resume for the big dance in March.

"This is your show for one hour to let the nation know why the illinois is the best student body in the country," said Digger Phelps.

Yes, the whole nation will wait and see if the Illini puts an orange krush on the spartans.

"It's going to be pretty crazy tonight, i see a lot more costumes today and people will signs, it's going to be great," said Nathan Bertrand.

"Bruce and guys really deserve it, they work hard, and hopefully we can come through for them tonight," said Turkin.

Reported by: Bret BuganskiESPN Invades the University