UConn vs Illinois final score, highlights: Huskies hold off Fighting Illini in Final Four

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UConn vs Illinois final score, highlights: Huskies hold off Fighting Illini in Final Four

UConn vs Illinois final score, highlights: Huskies hold off Fighting Illini in Final Four

Matthew Glenesk, Ehsan Kassim and John Leuzzi, USA TODAY · USA TODAY Sports

Sat, Apr 4, 2026 ·

26 min read

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Connecticut men's basketball will play for its third Men's NCAA Tournament title in the last four seasons.

But it didn't come that easily, though.

The No. 2-seeded Huskies, who shot a horrific 28.6% from the field in the second half, relied on their experience in March Madness to move past No. 3 Illinois 71-62 inside Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis on Saturday, April 4.

OLD HUSKY: Alex Karaban chases history as UConn's 'old dog that just won't die'

It's the 18th March Madness win for the Huskies under Dan Hurley. It's also the 13th overall Final Four win for UConn.

Illinois didn't shoot the ball much better than UConn on the night. But it was the Huskies' foul trouble that kept the Illini in the game, as Illinois finished 18-of-23 from the free throw line on the night.

USA TODAY Sports provided live updates, scores and highlights of Saturday's Final Four game between UConn and Illinois. Follow below for a recap.

Andrej Stojakovic #2 of the Illinois Fighting Illini drives to the basket against Solo Ball #1 of the UConn Huskies in the first half of the Final Four of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
(Patrick Smith, Getty Images)

Head coach Dan Hurley of the UConn Huskies reacts against the Illinois Fighting Illini during the first half in the Final Four of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
(Andy Lyons, Getty Images)

Tarris Reed Jr. #5 of the UConn Huskies shoots a layup against Zvonimir Ivisic #44 of the Illinois Fighting Illini in the first half of the Final Four of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)

Head coach Brad Underwood of the Illinois Fighting Illini reacts against the UConn Huskies during the first half in the Final Four of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)

Tarris Reed Jr. #5 of the UConn Huskies dunks the ball against the Illinois Fighting Illini in the first half of the Final Four of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)

Kylan Boswell #4 of the Illinois Fighting Illini makes a pass while playing against UConn Huskies in the first half of the Final Four of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
(Patrick Smith, Getty Images)

Jayden Ross #23 of the UConn Huskies gestures while playing against the Illinois Fighting Illini in the first half of the Final Four of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
(Patrick Smith, Getty Images)

UConn Huskies forward Jayden Ross (23) celebrates a made three point basket Saturday, April 4, 2026, during a Final Four game against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
(Christine Tannous/IndyStar, Imagn Images)

David Mirkovic #0 and Jake Davis #15 of the Illinois Fighting Illini huddle up with their teammates prior to the Final Four against the UConn Huskies in the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)

UConn Huskies forward Jaylin Stewart (3) shoots the ball over Illinois Fighting Illini forward David Mirkovic (0) in the first half during a semifinal of the Final Four of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium.
(Trevor Ruszkowski, Imagn Images)

Illinois Fighting Illini guard Kylan Boswell (4) saves the ball to Illinois Fighting Illini center Tomislav Ivisic (13) against the UConn Huskies in the first half during a semifinal of the Final Four of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium.
(Trevor Ruszkowski, Imagn Images)

UConn Huskies forward Tarris Reed Jr. (5) reacts after a play against the Illinois Fighting Illini during the first half of a semifinal of the Final Four of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium.
(Bob Donnan, Imagn Images)

Illinois Fighting Illini guard Keaton Wagler (23) shoots the ball against UConn Huskies guard Silas Demary Jr. (2) during the first half of a semifinal of the Final Four of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium.
(Bob Donnan, Imagn Images)

Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) shoots over UConn Huskies guard Solo Ball (1) in the first half during a semifinal of the Final Four of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium.
(Trevor Ruszkowski, Imagn Images)

UConn Huskies forward Tarris Reed Jr. (5) shoots the ball past Illinois Fighting Illini center Zvonimir Ivisic (44) in the first half during a semifinal of the Final Four of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium.
(Trevor Ruszkowski, Imagn Images)

UConn Huskies forward Tarris Reed Jr. (5) dunks the ball against Illinois Fighting Illini forward Ben Humrichous (3) in the first half during a semifinal of the Final Four of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium.
(Trevor Ruszkowski, Imagn Images)

Illinois Fighting Illini guard Keaton Wagler (23) is guarded Saturday, April 4, 2026, by UConn Huskies guard Silas Demary Jr. (2) during a Final Four game at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
(Grace Hollars/IndyStar, Imagn Images)

UConn Huskies guard Braylon Mullins (24) celebrates after shooting and making his second three point basket of the first half Saturday, April 4, 2026, during a Final Four game against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
(Grace Hollars/IndyStar, Imagn Images)

UConn Huskies forward Jayden Ross (23) celebrates after making a three-point basket against the Illinois Fighting Illini in the first half during a semifinal of the Final Four of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium.
(Trevor Ruszkowski, Imagn Images)

Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) shoots the ball against UConn Huskies guard Malachi Smith (0) in the first half during a semifinal of the Final Four of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium.
(Trevor Ruszkowski, Imagn Images)

UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley gets after his team Saturday, April 4, 2026, during a Final Four game against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
(Christine Tannous/IndyStar, Imagn Images)

Illinois Fighting Illini guard Keaton Wagler (23) drives to the basket against UConn Huskies guard Silas Demary Jr. (2) during the first half of a semifinal of the Final Four of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium.
(Bob Donnan, Imagn Images)

Tarris Reed Jr. #5 of the UConn Huskies jumps for the ball against Tomislav Ivisic #13 of the Illinois Fighting Illini in the Final Four of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
(Andy Lyons, Getty Images)

David Mirkovic #0 of the Illinois Fighting Illini interacts with teammates during player introductions prior to the game against the UConn Huskies in the Final Four of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
(Andy Lyons, Getty Images)

IN-DEPTH: How Illinois' Keaton Wagler rose from freshman unknown to superstar

Illinois vs UConn live score

TEAMS	1H	2H	F
Illinois	29	33	62
UConn	34	34	71

ARMOUR: Dan Hurley isn't actually a jerk. He just plays one on TV

Illinois vs UConn highlights

UConn defeats Illinois

A pair of free throws from Silas Demary Jr. and a missed 3-pointer from Keaton Wagler serve to be nails in the coffin for the Illini. UConn advances to the national championship game for the third time in the last four years with a 71-62 win over Illinois.

Braylon Mullins, Keaton Wagler trade 3-pointers

Braylon Mullins hits a much-needed 3-pointer for UConn, but Illinois' own freshman, Keaton Wagler, hits a 3-pointer for Illinois and the Illini burn their last timeout. It's the first basket of the second half for Mullins.

We've got ourselves a game. UConn leads 66-62 with 43 seconds remaining.

1 /4

Braylon Mullins hits late three to send UConn to the title game

With the game tightening late in the second half, UConn turned to poise and execution as every possession carried championship weight.

Braylon Mullins delivered the defining moment, knocking down a late three as the Huskies pushed through the final minutes to secure their place in the national title game.

Above, Braylon Mullins #24 of the UConn Huskies shoots a three‑pointer against the Illinois Fighting Illini during the second half of the men’s Final Four at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 4, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana.

(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)

With the game tightening late in the second half, UConn turned to poise and execution as every possession carried championship weight.

Braylon Mullins delivered the defining moment, knocking down a late three as the Huskies pushed through the final minutes to secure their place in the national title game.

Above, Braylon Mullins #24 of the UConn Huskies shoots a three‑pointer against the Illinois Fighting Illini during the second half of the men’s Final Four at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 4, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana.

(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)

Braylon Mullins #24 of the UConn Huskies reacts while playing against the Illinois Fighting Illini during the second half in the Final Four of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana
(Patrick Smith, Getty Images)

Braylon Mullins #24 of the UConn Huskies celebrates after defeating the Illinois Fighting Illini in the Final Four of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)

Illinois calls timeout

Keaton Wagler muscles his way to the basket, and Brad Underwood calls a timeout to discuss how he wants Illinois to play out the final 1:38 of the game. It remains a 63-59 lead for UConn, but the Huskies have not made a shot from the field in the last two-and-a-half minutes of the game clock.

UConn leads at final media timeout

Tarris Reed Jr. draws the foul and will head to the free throw line coming out of the final media timeout. UConn holds a five-point lead after Ben Humrichous responds to Solo Ball's emphatic dunk with a 3-pointer, his first shot of the night.

This one could come down to who can make the most shots in the final 2:46, while limiting fouls and turnovers.

Illinois cutting into deficit

Andrej Stojakovic gets the second-chance opportunity to fall in, and Illinois has cut UConn's lead to four points. It's a 10-0 run for the Illini in the last 4:23 of game clock.

UConn's offense has gone ice-cold, with Tarris Reed Jr. and Braylon Mullins yet to score in the second half. The Huskies have missed each of their last seven shot attempts from the floor.

UConn foul trouble keeping Illinois in game

Illinois has responded to UConn pushing the lead up to 14 points with an 8-0 run over the last 2:24 of the game clock, with a majority of those points coming from the free throw line. UConn's foul trouble is really hurting them in this one.

The Illini are 17-of-21 from the free throw line. UConn leads 57-51 with 6:46 to go in the second half.

UConn finding success with 3-point shooting

Jaylin Stewart hits a big-time 3-pointer off the bench for UConn, and the Huskies have their largest lead of the night at 14 points. It's been the surprising success with their 3-point shooting that has the Huskies with a double-digit lead with under nine minutes to go.

It continues not to be Illinois' night offensively. The Illini are 5-of-13 from the field in the second half.

UConn struggling offensively, holds lead at under-12 media timeout

Dan Hurley is not thrilled with the offensive foul called on Eric Reibe just before the under-12 media timeout. His team still holds a double-digit lead at 52-42 with 11:49 left in the second half despite some horrific offensive shooting.

UConn is 2-of-9 in its last nine field goal attempts, and has only three made shots from the field in the second half, all coming from beyond the arc. Illinois' size and length are keeping UConn from getting shots inside the paint.

Tarris Reed Jr. and Braylon Mullins are both scoreless to start the second half after strong first halves. It'll be interesting to see how UConn gets them going again down the stretch.

Solo Ball 3-pointer ties UConn's largest lead of night

Solo Ball hits a 3-pointer and puts UConn up by 11 points against Illinois, tying the largest lead of the night for the Huskies. Braylon Mullins then gets the steal on the next possession, but draws the foul after missing the layup, causing a stoppage in play.

It's UConn leading 47-36 at the under-16 media timeout in the second half. Both teams' offenses haven't looked great coming out of the locker room, as they've both hit just two shots from the field.

David Mirkovic picks up third foul

Alex Karaban misses the layup but draws the foul, so he'll head to the free-throw line for two shot attempts. Picking up the foul for Illinois is forward David Mirkovic, his third of the night. It'll be interesting to see how much longer Brad Underwood keeps his big man in with him now in foul trouble.

Second half underway

Solo Ball misses a 3-pointer for UConn to start the second half. Alex Karaban then gets fouled by Keaton Wagler as he goes up for the second-chance opportunity layup off the offensive rebound.

UConn finishes first half with no turnovers

Tarris Reed Jr. and Braylon Mullins both made their presences known in the first half with 11 points and 12 points, respectively. But the stat that stands out more at halftime for UConn is zero turnovers. The Huskies did a great job with their ball security in the first half.

Illinois had two turnovers in the first half, which UConn has cashed in for six points.

UConn leads Illinois at halftime

UConn takes an eight-point lead into the locker room over Illinois thanks to knocking down six of its last eight shots from the field in the second half.

Braylon Mullins has met the moment in his first Final Four and leads all scorers with 12 points on 4-of-8 shooting from the field, which includes a few big-time 3-pointers. UConn's 37 first-half points are the most points Illinois has given up in the first half of the Men's NCAA Tournament.

Illinois disrupted UConn's flow with its size and length, but the Huskies made some in-game adjustments to weather the storm. Illini made just two shots from the field in the final 3:11 of the first half.

Alex Karaban knocks down first shot

Alex Karaban is finally on the board as he knocks down a 3-pointer off the assist from Solo Ball. It's a 13-2 run for the Huskies, who now lead Illinois 34-23.

Alex Karaban remains scoreless

It hasn't been the start Alex Karaban envisioned for his last trip to the Final Four, as the UConn forward remains scoreless through the first 15 minutes of the first half. He is 0-of-3 shooting from the field, and 0-of-2 on 3-point attempts. He does have two assists, a rebound, a block and a steal.

UConn is going to need to find a way to get Karaban going if the Huskies want to win this one.

Illinois takes lead

Tomislav Ivisic hits a 3-pointer and Illinois takes its first lead of the night. It's a 13-3 run for the Illini over the last 5:38 of the game clock.

The Huskies are struggling to knock down shots right now, with the lone made basket being a 3-pointer from Jayden Ross. This has been a season-long trend for UConn, where its offense gets into inconsistent rhythms and stretches.

Illinois' length and size are also causing UConn some trouble with their offensive flow.

Illinois cuts deficit to three points

It's a three-point game with Keaton Wagler hitting a 3-pointer. It's the first made 3-pointer of the night for Illinois.

UConn holds six-point lead at under-12 media timeout

UConn's offense has gone cold since Illinois' timeout after Tarris Reed Jr.'s dunk. The Huskies have missed each of their last three shots from the field, all coming from beyond the arc.

It's 18-12 UConn with 11:25 to go in the first half. Illinois, still attempting to find its offensive rhythm, is hanging in this one thanks to free-throw opportunities and UConn's foul trouble. UConn will have to clean that up if they want to break this one open, assuming the Huskies knock down shots of their own.

Illinois calls timeout, UConn out to hot start

Brad Underwood has seen enough and burns an early timeout. Tarris Reed Jr. extends UConn's run to 10-2 with an emphatic dunk inside the paint off the pass from Alex Karaban. Reed is up to seven points and four rebounds, with his last one coming on a 1-on-1 battle win against Davis Mirkovic.

Illinois is struggling to knock down shots against UConn's top-10-ranked KenPom defense. The llini are 3-of-9 shooting from the field and have a third of their nine points from the free throw line.

It's 18-9 UConn with 13:20 remaining in the first half.

UConn leading early at first media timeout

Tarris Reed Jr. muscles his way into the paint and hits the jumper while drawing the foul. He'll head to the free throw line after the under-16 media timeout, looking to extend UConn's lead that currently sits at 10-7.

That's the type of play (and presence) the Huskies need from their center tonight. He's been fantastic this postseason. UConn has a pair of triples from Braylon Mullins to start, a key for them coming into this one. Illinois is 2-of-6 shooting to start.

Braylon Mullins hits first shot of game

It's the local kid Braylon Mullins who gets the scoring going with a 3-pointer. That's a good start and sign for UConn's offense to get the freshman guard going early.

UConn wins tip

We're underway in Indianapolis with UConn winning the opening tip-off. Both teams miss 3-point attempts on their first possessions.

Starting lineups announced, tip-off coming up

Tip-off between UConn and Illinois is just a few minutes away, with both teams being introduced on the court. Illinois looks to have more representation in the crowd.

Final Four predictions: TNT Sports crew makes picks for UConn-Illinois, Arizona-Michigan

The Final Four picks are in from the TNT Sports pregame show crew. Here's who they have winning Saturday's game and advancing to Monday's national championship game:

Charles Barkley:Illinois and Arizona
Kenny Smith:UConn and Arizona
Clark Kellogg:Illinois and Michigan
Bruce Pearl:UConn and Arizona

UConn-Illinois tip-off 20 minutes away

It's getting closer to tip-off in Indianapolis between UConn and Illinois. Both programs will tip off at 6:09 p.m. ET on TBS, truTV and TNT.

Starting lineups for UConn-Illinois in Final Four

Here's the starting lineups for UConn and Illinois in Saturday's Final Four matchup:

UConn

Solo Ball (Guard)
Silas Demary Jr. (Guard)
Braylon Mullins (Guard)
Tarris Reed Jr. (Forward)
Alex Karaban (Forward)

Illinois

Kylan Boswell (Guard)
Keaton Wagler (Guard)
Davis Mirkovic (Forward)
Jake Davis (Forward)
Tomislav Ivisic (Center)

Kenny Smith: 'This is the night' Braylon Mullins, Alex Karaban 'shoot the basketball'

Kenny Smith is predicting a big shooting night from UConn's Braylon Mullins and Alex Karaban in the Final Four vs. Illinois. Both Karaban and Mullins have hit big shots this season for the Huskies, with Mullins being the one who drained the game-winning 3-pointer vs. Duke to send UConn to the Final Four.

Karaban is averaging 17.8 points in four March Madness games, while Mullins is averaging 11.8 points in his first trip to the Men's NCAA Tournament.

Charles Barkley: Illinois going to beat UConn 'pretty good' in Final Four

Charles Barkley has made his Final Four prediction for UConn vs. Illinois, and the former Auburn and NBA forward believes the Illini will beat the Huskies "pretty good" on Saturday night.

Chris Walker: 'Don't think either Big Ten team' will win March Madness

Even though the Big Ten has half of the Final Four field, CBS Sports' Chris Walker said in pregame coverage he doesn't believe the conference will leave Indianapolis with the Men's NCAA Tournament championship trophy, adding he doesn't think Illinois or Michigan will even play in the championship game.

The Big Ten has not won the Men's NCAA Tournament since Michigan State in 2000.

Alex Karaban chasing March Madness history

Alex Karaban is the first player on the floor at Lucas Oil Stadium for pregame warmups. It's the third Final Four and the 19th overall Men's NCAA Tournament game that the Huskies veteran forward is playing in.

Two wins in Indianapolis would give Karaban three national championships in his storied collegiate career. This feat has only happened eight times in history, all by those in John Wooden's UCLA dynasty in the 1960s and '70s. The last time it was accomplished was in 1971-73 with Larry Farmer and Larry Hollyfield.

Tarris Reed Jr. stats in March Madness

UConn forward Tarris Reed Jr. has been on a tear in March Madness and has proven to be the X-factor for the Huskies' Final Four run. It's something that Dan Hurley called his shot on several times in the last month.

"Tarris is the difference between us getting to the Final Four," Hurley said in early March.

The Huskies' 6-foot-11, 265-pound center enters Saturday's game vs. Illinois averaging 21.8 points, 13.5 rebounds, three assists and 2.3 blocks in four March Madness games while shooting an efficient 60% from the field. He is the first player in Men's NCAA Tournament history to average at least 20 points, 13 rebounds and three assists in a four-game regional at this point of the tournament.

Click here to read more about Reed's run through March Madness.

REQUIRED READING: Dan Hurley called his shot: Tarris Reed Jr. would be X-factor for UConn Final Four run

Dan Hurley arrives at Lucas Oil Stadium

Dan Hurley has arrived at Lucas Oil Stadium for Saturday's Final Four vs. Illinois. He looks to be wearing the same suit pants and jacket he has worn for the Huskies' entire March Madness run this season. Will this be the only superstition from Hurley tonight, or will he toss some holy water along the court again?

The Huskies are 17-3 in the NCAA Tournament under Hurley, including a perfect 4-0 record at the Final Four.

Ron Groover officiating UConn Final Four game

UConn basketball is 1-3 in games when Ron Goover is officiating. He's in line to ref the matchup between the Huskies and Illinois in the Final Four on Saturday.

Read more here about UConn's history with Ron Goover.

What time is Illinois vs UConn Final Four game?

Time:6:09 p.m. ET, Saturday, April 4.

What channel is UConn Illinois? How to watch Final Four, streaming info

The game is airing on TBS, TNT, truTV, streaming via HBO Max.

Illinois vs UConn prediction , odds

Adam Duvall, Peoria Journal Star : Illinois 67, UConn 64.These two programs met in the 2024 Elite Eight with UConn winning by 25 points including a 30-0 run from the Huskies. This national semifinal meeting is also a rematch of the Fighting Illini's eighth game of the season. Illinois lost that Nov. 28 game, 74-61 at Madison Square Garden despite 25 points by Kylan Boswell. Freshman phenom Keaton Wagler has been a steady offensive presence, dropping 25 in the Elite 8 win over Iowa. However, Andrej Stojakovic has been the X-factor off the bench. He's averaging 15 points in the NCAA tournament. UConn is back in the Final Four for a third time in four seasons, winning back-to-back titles in 2023 and 2024. Huskies senior center Tarris Reed Jr. has been a monster during the Big Dance, averaging 21.8 points and 13.5 rebounds.
Blake Toppmeyer: Illinois. Credit UConn for incredible comeback, but don't overlook Illinois. The Illini looked dominant coming out of the South, and they have enough offense to turn back a clutch UConn team.
John Brice: UConn.How could anyone pick against Dan Hurley's squad at this point? Hurley's now 18-1 in his past three March Madness appearances. The Huskies will play for a third crown in four seasons.
Paul Myerberg: UConn.The backcourt play and just enough beef up front to repeat November's 13-point win against the Illini in MSG. And after the miracle comeback against Duke, the Huskies feel like a team of destiny.
Jordan Mendoza: UConn.The Huskies ride the high of the Elite Eight comeback and the 3-point shot returns to advanced to the national championship again.
Eddie Timanus: UConn.I would have to be a complete idiot to pick against UConn at this phase of the Big Dance. We seen 'team of destiny' shots in the Elite Eight before, haven't we?
Matt Glenesk: Illinois.I originally picked UConn, but have changed my mind. There's something about Illinois' offensive firepower and wave of big bodies they can throw at opponents that has me convinced of an All-Big Ten national championship.
John Leuzzi: UConn.When these two met in late November at Madison Square Garden, UConn won by 13. While the margin of victory may not be like that this time around, the Huskies do get their second win of the season against the Illini. Tarris Reed Jr. and Alex Karaban continue to have big games, while Braylon Mullins delivers a big-time shot in front of the home crowd. UConn's defense is looking like a top 5 unit again.
Brent Schrotenboer: UConn.That ending against Duke makes it look like destiny is calling again, at least for one more game.
Craig Meyer: UConn.The Illini haven't just won on their way to their first Final Four in 21 years, but they've been dominant, winning each of their four tournament games by at least 10 points. They've only played one team better than a No. 9 seed, though, and the more battle-tested Huskies will be able to lean on Tarris Reed Jr. and Alex Karaban to pull out a close win. One thing to keep in mind with Illinois: no team has ever lost its first conference tournament game, like the Illini did against Wisconsin in the Big Ten tournament, and gone on to win the national championship.
Ehsan Kassim: Illinois.UConn has required surviving two scares to reach this point. Illinois on the other hand has been dominant in the South Region. Give me the Illini.
Moneyline:Illinois (-135); UConn (+110)
Spread:Illinois (-1.5)
Over/under total:139.5

Who are refs for Illinois UConn Final Four game?

Ron Groover, Paul Szelc, Marques Pettigrew, Greg Nixon (Alternate)

Illinois Final Four bold prediction

Ehsan Kassim:The Illini are going to win the whole thing this year.
Austin Curtright:Illinois loses by double digits to UConn.

UConn Final Four bold prediction

John Leuzzi:Solo Ball has a breakout moment and reminds the country why he was one of the top one of 3-point shooters in the country last season.
Jordan Mendoza:The Huskies lose their first Final Four game in the Dan Hurley era.
Austin Curtright:UConn's 3-pointers start to fall. UConn have only made double-digit 3-pointers in a game once since Feb. 18, but will do it twice in two games at the Final Four.

Illinois road to Final Four

First round: beat No. 14 Penn, 105-70
Second round: beat No. 11 VCU, 76-55
Sweet 16: beat No. 2 Houston, 65-55
Elite Eight: beat No. 9 Iowa, 71-59

UConn road to Final Four

First round:beat No. 15 Furman, 82-71
Second round:beat No. 7 UCLA, 73-57
Sweet 16:beat No. 3 Michigan State, 67-63
Elite Eight:beat No. 1 Duke, 73-72

Illinois basketball stat leaders

SCORING

Keaton Wagler, 17.9 ppg
Andrej Stojakovic, 13.6 ppg
David Mirkovic, 13.5 ppg
Kylan Boswell, 12.5 ppg
Tomislav Ivisic, 10. 2 ppg

REBOUNDING

David Mirkovic, 8.1 rpg
Tomislav Ivisic, 5.6 rpg
Keaton Wagler, 5.0 rpg

ASSISTS

Keaton Wagler, 4.3 apg
Kylan Boswell, 3.1 apg
David Mirkovic, 2.6 apg

UConn basketball stat leaders

SCORING

Tarris Reed Jr.: 14.7 ppg
Alex Karaban, 13.2 ppg
Solo Ball, 12.9 ppg
Braylon Mullins, 11.9 ppg
Silas Demary Jr., 10.4 ppg

REBOUNDING

Tarris Reed Jr., 8.8 rpg
Alex Karaban, 5.2 rpg
Silas Demary Jr., 4.5 rpg

ASSISTS

Silas Demary Jr., 5.9 apg
Malachi Smith, 3.0 apg

Illinois basketball Final Four history; Has Illinois ever won a national championship?

This is the Illini's sixth trip to the Final Four and first since 2005. The school has never won an NCAA national championship in men's basketball.

1949:lost semifinal to Kentucky, 76-47
1951:lost semifinal to Kentucky, 76-74
1952:lost semifinal to St. John's, 61-59
1989:lost semifinal to Michigan, 83-81
2005:won semifinal vs. Louisville, 72-57; lost in final to North Carolina, 75-70

UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley reacts during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena on March 22, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)

UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley reacts in the first half during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena.
(Kyle Ross, Kyle Ross-Imagn Images)

UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley reacts in the second half during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena.
(Bill Streicher, Bill Streicher-Imagn Images)

UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley reacts with guard Malachi Smith (0) in the first half during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena.
(Kyle Ross, Kyle Ross-Imagn Images)

UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley reacts with UCLA Bruins head coach Mick Cronin in the second half during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena.
(Bill Streicher, Bill Streicher-Imagn Images)

Mar 22, 2026; Philadelphia, PA, USA; UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley reacts after defeating the UCLA Bruins in a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
(Bill Streicher, Bill Streicher-Imagn Images)

Mar 27, 2026; Washington, DC, USA; UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley reacts in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
(Amber Searls, Amber Searls-Imagn Images)

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MARCH 20: Head coach Dan Hurley of the UConn Huskies reacts against the Furman Paladins during the second half in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena on March 20, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)

Head coach Dan Hurley of the UConn Huskies reacts against the Furman Paladins during the second half in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena on March 20, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MARCH 22: UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley reacts during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena on March 22, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MARCH 22: UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley reacts after Braylon Mullins #24 of the UConn Huskies shot during the first half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena on March 22, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MARCH 22: UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley reacts during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena on March 22, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 27: Head coach Dan Hurley of the UConn Huskies looks on during the first half against the Michigan State Spartans in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 27, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 27: Head coach Dan Hurley of the UConn Huskies reacts during the second half against the Michigan State Spartans in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 27, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)

UConn basketball Final Four history: How many national championships have UConn won?

This is UConn's eighth trip to the Final Four, all since 1999. The Huskies have won six national titles in their seven previous trips.

1999:won semifinal vs. Ohio State, 64-58; won final vs. Duke, 77-74
2004:won semifinal vs. Duke, 79-78; won final vs. Georgia Tech, 82-73
2009:lost semifinal vs. Michigan State, 82-73
2011:won semifinal vs. Kentucky, 56-55; won final vs. Butler, 53-41
2014:won semifinal vs. Florida, 63-53; won final vs. Kentucky, 60-54
2023:won semifinal vs. Miami, 72-59; won final vs. San Diego State, 76-59
2024:won semifinal vs. Alabama, 86-72; won final vs. Purdue, 75-60

Is Andrej Stojakovic related to Peja Stojakovic?

Yes, Peja is his dad . Peja Stojakovic played 13 seasons in the NBA, primarily for the Sacramento Kings, and was a three-time All-Star.

Andrej played at Cal and Stanford before transferring to Illinois.

How many Europeans are on Illinois' team? Why does Illinois have so many Europeans on its roster?

David Mirkovic is from Montenegro
Andrej Stojakovic lists Thessaloniki, Greece as his hometown
Tomislav Ivisic is from Croatia
Zvonimir Ivisic is from Croatia
Mihailo Petrovic is from Serbia
Toni Bilic is from Croatia

"Geoff Alexander, Orlando Antigua deserve most all of the credit in terms of building the relationships in Europe," Illinois coach Brad Underwood said. "It's taken years. NIL has obviously helped enhance our abilities to attract some of the best players in Europe. But they're a great fit for us. It's not for everybody. I enjoy coaching 'em. They fit our university. We're a diverse university with a lot of international students, so it's a perfect fit for them.

"Basketball-wise it's a great fit for me, and I like coaching them. The way we're playing with positional size and shooting, it's just — it's a great marriage and a great fit. So we'll continue it. I would think others will continue to migrate over there and keep trying to recruit those guys."

UConn Huskies guard Braylon Mullins (24) hits a go-ahead three-point basket late in the second half during an Elite Eight game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena.
(Geoff Burke, Imagn Images)

Braylon Mullins #24 of the UConn Huskies celebrates after shooting the game-winning three point basket during the second half of a game against the Duke Blue Devils in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)

Braylon Mullins #24 celebrates with Malachi Smith #0 of the UConn Huskies after shooting the game-winning three point basket during the second half of a game against the Duke Blue Devils in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.
(Patrick Smith, Getty Images)

UConn Huskies guard Malachi Smith (0) celebrates with UConn Huskies guard Braylon Mullins (24) after a game-winning three-point basket against the Duke Blue Devils in the second half during an Elite Eight game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena.
(Geoff Burke, Imagn Images)

UConn Huskies guard Braylon Mullins (24) celebrates after making the game-winning three-point basket against the Duke Blue Devils in the second half during an Elite Eight game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena.
(Geoff Burke, Imagn Images)

The UConn Huskies huddle up against the Duke Blue Devils prior to an Elite Eight game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena.
(Amber Searls, Imagn Images)

Head coach Dan Hurley of the UConn Huskies reacts during the second half of a game against the Duke Blue Devils in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)

UConn Huskies guard Braylon Mullins (24) passes the ball against Duke Blue Devils guard Isaiah Evans (3) in the second half during an Elite Eight game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena.
(Amber Searls, Imagn Images)

UConn Huskies forward Tarris Reed Jr. (5) goes to the basket against Duke Blue Devils center Patrick Ngongba (21)in the second half during an Elite Eight game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena.
(Amber Searls, Imagn Images)

UConn Huskies forward Alex Karaban (11) shoots over Duke Blue Devils forward Cameron Boozer (12) in the first half during an Elite Eight game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena.
(Geoff Burke, Imagn Images)

Silas Demary Jr. #2 of the UConn Huskies reacts during the second half of a game against the Duke Blue Devils in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)

UConn Huskies forward Tarris Reed Jr. (5) and UConn Huskies forward Jayden Ross (23) celebrate after a play against the Duke Blue Devils in the second half during an Elite Eight game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena.
(Amber Searls, Imagn Images)

UConn Huskies guard Solo Ball (1) scores against Duke Blue Devils forward Cameron Boozer (12) and is fouled in the second half during an Elite Eight game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena.
(Amber Searls, Imagn Images)

UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley celebrates after a play against the Duke Blue Devils in the second half during an Elite Eight game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena.
(Geoff Burke, Imagn Images)

Tarris Reed Jr. #5 of the UConn Huskies reacts during the first half of a game against the Duke Blue Devils in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.
(Patrick Smith, Getty Images)

Solo Ball #1 of the UConn Huskies dribbles against the Duke Blue Devils during the second half of a game in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.
(Patrick Smith, Getty Images)

UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley reacts after a shot clock violation against the Duke Blue Devils in the second half during an Elite Eight game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena.
(Amber Searls, Imagn Images)

Tarris Reed Jr. #5 of the UConn Huskies looks on against the Duke Blue Devils during the first half of a game in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)

Malachi Smith #0 of the UConn Huskies reacts during the first half of a game against the Duke Blue Devils in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)

Solo Ball #1 of the UConn Huskies drives to the rim during the first half of a game against the Duke Blue Devils in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)

Tarris Reed Jr. #5 of the UConn Huskies drives to the hoop against Patrick Ngongba #21 of the Duke Blue Devils during the second half of a game in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.
(Patrick Smith, Getty Images)

Tarris Reed Jr. #5 of the UConn Huskies dunks against the Duke Blue Devils during the second half of a game in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.
(Patrick Smith, Getty Images)

Tarris Reed Jr. #5 celebrates with Malachi Smith #0 of the UConn Huskies during the second half of a game against the Duke Blue Devils in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)

Jayden Ross #23 of the UConn Huskies reacts during the second half of a game against the Duke Blue Devils in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC
(Patrick Smith, Getty Images)

Tarris Reed Jr. #5 of the UConn Huskies reacts during the second half of a game against the Duke Blue Devils in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)

Alex Karaban #11 of the UConn Huskies reacts after shooting a three point basket against the Duke Blue Devils during the second half of a game in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.
(Patrick Smith, Getty Images)

Alex Karaban #11 of the UConn Huskies shoots a three point basket against the Duke Blue Devils during the second half of a game in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.
(Patrick Smith, Getty Images)

Braylon Mullins #24 of the UConn Huskies celebrates after shooting a three point basket during the second half of a game against the Duke Blue Devils in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 29, 2026 in Washington, DC.
(Patrick Smith, Getty Images)

UConn freshman Braylon Mullins' game-winner vs Duke gives him a homecoming

No. 1 Duke was leading the Huskies by two when Silas Demary Jr. deflected a pass by Cayden Boozer with six seconds left.

Braylon Mullins scooped up the ball around halfcourt and dished to Alex Karaban, who gave it right back. Mullins then drained the 35-footer with 0.4 seconds left to beat Duke and send UConn to its third Final Four in four years.

"That moment is over. It's an incredible moment. You'll have that moment the rest of your life. But we came here for rings, not watches," Hurley said.

Mullins, the 2025 Indiana Mr. Basketball who played at Greenfield-Central, will be playing in front of plenty of friends and family this weekend. Greenfield is 30 minutes east of Indianapolis.

"It's unbelievable to be in the position I am," Mullins said . "I think it just makes everything a little sweeter knowing that I'm playing in front of family and friends. I can't wait to see everybody in open practice tomorrow and see everybody at the game."

Illinois' Jake Davis gets to play at home for Final Four, too

The Illini forward is from McCordsville, Indiana, a suburb northeast of Indianapolis, and played at Indy's Cathedral High School. He began his college career at Mercer before transferring to Illinois after the 2024 season. At Cathedral, Davis was known as " the guy who takes charges ."

Illinois forward Ben Humrichous is also from Indiana, from nearby Tipton, about an hour north. He began his college career at Indiana's Huntington University (NAIA) and then transferred to Evansville.

Brad Underwood says Illinois will 'turn Indy orange', 'kick everybody's ass there'

On Sunday, Brad Underwood addressed a crowd of fans on campus:

"We had a huge group in Houston. I know we're going to turn it out in Indy. That's the story. We're going to turn Indy orange.. and blue. And kick everybody's ass there."

Keaton Wagler 2026 NBA Draft mock draft prediction

Atlanta Hawks, pick No. 7.

Kalbrosky's Analysis:

After trading away Trae Young, the Hawks could find their point guard of the future in Illinois standout Keaton Wagler using a first-round pick they received from the Pelicans. The 19-year-old guard scored 46 points while shooting 9-of-11 on 3-pointers against No. 12 Purdue on Jan. 24. He projects as one of the best 3-point shooters in this class, shooting 41.0 percent from beyond the arc as a freshman this year. The Big Ten Rookie of the Year is a cerebral basketball player who is also averaging 4.9 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game this season.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: UConn vs Illinois final score, highlights: Huskies advance to national championship

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Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn, title‑game pressure. See photos

Illinois vs UConn live score

Illinois vs UConn highlights

UConn defeats Illinois

Braylon Mullins, Keaton Wagler trade 3-pointers

Braylon Mullins hits late three to send UConn to the title game

Braylon Mullins hits late three to send UConn to the title game

Braylon Mullins hits late three to send UConn to the title game

Braylon Mullins hits late three to send UConn to the title game

Illinois calls timeout

UConn leads at final media timeout

Illinois cutting into deficit

UConn foul trouble keeping Illinois in game

UConn finding success with 3-point shooting

UConn struggling offensively, holds lead at under-12 media timeout

Solo Ball 3-pointer ties UConn's largest lead of night

David Mirkovic picks up third foul

Second half underway

UConn finishes first half with no turnovers

UConn leads Illinois at halftime

Alex Karaban knocks down first shot

Alex Karaban remains scoreless

Illinois takes lead

Illinois cuts deficit to three points

UConn holds six-point lead at under-12 media timeout

Illinois calls timeout, UConn out to hot start

UConn leading early at first media timeout

Braylon Mullins hits first shot of game

UConn wins tip

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