(Houston, TX) — The three-seed Illinois Fighting Illini are heading to the Final Four for the first time in over 20 years. The Illini beat nine-seed Iowa in the Elite Eight 71-59 from Toyota Center on Saturday.
Iowa led by four at halftime before Illinois went on a 43-27 run to end the game.
Keaton Wagler poured in 25 points during the victory, while Andrej Stojakovic chipped in with 17 off the bench. Illinois will take on either Duke or UConn next Saturday.
Bennett Stirtz finished with 24 points in the losing effort. Iowa ended the season with a 24-and-13 record.
March 28, 2026