Illini merch in demand at Chicago stores as fans prepare for Final Four match

Excitement is building for Illinois' first Final Four game in decades.

Fans are making plans and trying to get their hands on merch at Clark Street Sports in Chicago.

If they win the championship, the space will be transformed to orange and blue,

Now, the championship gear only exists on a computer screen.

The design for the shirts and other gear is top-secret until the game is over.

But Jason Careff, a partner of Clark Street Sports, is counting on Illinois to survive the Final Four and come out national champions.

"Illinois has got a win. So, we have an order. We are ready. I hope they're ready to play." Caref said.

For Illinois alumni this has been a long time coming. The last time they were in the Final Four was 21 years ago.

SEE ALSO | March Madness: Illinois to face UConn in first Final Four in 21 years after teams beat Iowa, Duke

Fans crowded bars throughout the Chicago area on Saturday night to watch the Illini beat Iowa.

It will be even crazier this Saturday when the team plays UConn in the first game of the national semi-finals.

The Chicago Illini club has identified eight official watch parties for alumni throughout the Chicago area.

Stores near the campus in downstate Champaign are already selling plenty of merchandise.

Most of the gear celebrates the team for making the final round of the playoffs.

Production of national championship gear kicks into high gear right after the final buzzer on Monday nights championship game.

If Illini win the game, Clark Street Sports will be completely transformed as quickly as Tuesday.

SEE ALSO | Illinois defeats Iowa, advances to Final Four in March Madness tournament; Purdue loses to Arizona