Ismael Kante

2025 JUNIOR Played in all 12 games Contributed primarily on special team but played defensive snaps in nine regular-season contests Six tackles (three solo), 0.5 tackles for loss, and one pass breakup on the season Tied season-high with two tackles and a pass breakup vs. Northwestern (11/29/25) Season-high two tackles with a half sack at Wisconsin (11/22/25) First-career tackle as an Illini at #19 Indiana (9/20/25) 2024 SOPHOMORE (IOWA CENTRAL CC) Three-star recruit by 247Sports Top-ranked junior college linebacker in the nation by 247Sports #21 junior college player in the nation by 247Sports 71 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, 4.0 sacks, and five pass breakups on the season 2023 REDSHIRT FRESHMAN (NORTHERN STATE) Played in all 11 games 16 tackles (11 solo), 3.5 tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks, and two quarterback hurries on the season 2022 FRESHMAN (NORTHERN STATE) Redshirted the 2022 season HIGH SCHOOL Played for head coach Jordan Sallis at Park Center Totaled 157 tackles, 13.0 tackles for loss, two interceptions, and 10 pass breakups in high school 2021 all-state Two-time all-district and all-area Team captain as a senior Also an all-state wrestler in high school and placed fifth in the state as a senior PERSONAL Born July 4, 2003 Son of Ibrahima Kante and Fanta Bamba Five brothers, Sekou, Sidiki, Yayah, Musa, and Mohammed Family immigrated from West Africa to the United States in 2012 when he was a young child Chose Illinois because “I love what they have going on with the program, and I want to be a part of it.” Majoring in communication RELATED CONTENT There is no related content available. Related Headlines Related Press Clips Related Videos Related Photos STATISTICS