The Big Ten has done its share of damage in the NCAA softball tournament. Michigan has been there 25 times, including the last 23 in a row. The Wolverines took the national title in 2005.
Nebraska has gone 24 times; Iowa and Northwestern have each earned 16 bids. Minnesota and Penn State have been invited 12 and 10 times, respectively.
Illinois wants to become one of the regulars. The Illini have earned bids six times in their abbreviated history, including the last two, since the program started in 2000.
"We're a Power 5 school," third-year Illinois coach Tyra Perry said.