Collinses and Pedon Share Family Bond at ISU-Northwestern Exhibition Game

Ryan Pedon, the head coach of the Illinois State University (ISU) men’s basketball team, recently shared a special bond with Doug Collins, a former All-American guard at ISU and a Hall of Famer. Their friendship began in 2022 when Pedon received a phone call from Collins while waiting to accept his coaching position. Collins, who is deeply connected to ISU, has become a mentor to Pedon, offering guidance both as a former player and coach.

Collins Family Legacy at Illinois State

With Doug Collins’ name gracing the Redbirds’ home court, CEFCU Arena, the Collins family holds a significant legacy at Illinois State. Pedon affectionately considers Doug not just a mentor but a father figure, stating, “I can’t say there’s a male besides my father who has had more influence on me.” Pedon also values his relationship with Doug’s son, Chris Collins, the head coach at Northwestern University. He describes Chris as an older brother, highlighting the familial support available to him since becoming head coach at ISU.

Upcoming Exhibition Game

An exciting exhibition game is scheduled for October 29, where Pedon’s Redbirds will face off against Chris Collins’ Wildcats at Northwestern. This matchup carries emotional weight, as it represents not only a competitive event but also a celebration of their shared history. Doug Collins expressed enthusiasm for these games, stating that it will be enjoyable to have his son and Pedon connect through basketball.

Future Plans

• The Wildcats will play in Normal in subsequent seasons, further strengthening the connection between the two teams.
• Both coaches are eager to learn about their teams during this exhibition, with Pedon looking to build on a successful past season where ISU went 22-14.
• ISU is aiming to secure its first NCAA Tournament berth since 1998, with Doug highlighting the potential within the veteran team.

Honoring the Past at Horton Field House

The significance of Horton Field House, where Doug Collins set numerous records during his playing days, adds another layer to this relationship. Doug emphasized the nostalgia around Horton, stating that the environment during games is something he wishes to share with current players. The possibility of hosting an exhibition game at Horton next season excites both the Collins family and Pedon, showcasing their commitment to honoring ISU’s basketball heritage.

Current Season Outlook

This season, Illinois State is expected to excel with many returning players. They are pre-season favorites to win the Missouri Valley Conference. Conversely, Northwestern’s recent performance was 17-16, making their upcoming game against ISU vital for both teams. Each coach recognizes the value of this exhibition in preparing their squads for the competitive season ahead.

Community Support Needed

Doug Collins urges ISU fans to rally and support the Redbirds this season, reminding them of the importance of a strong home crowd. He believes that a vibrant atmosphere motivates players, stating, “I want our fans to be there and cheer for our guys.” The shared history and unity among the Collins family, combined with the passionate fan base, foster a rich basketball community at Illinois State and Northwestern.