Quick hits: Illini advance to Final Four with 71-59 win over Iowa
247Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Illinois, led by coach Brad Underwood, defeated Iowa 71-59 in the Elite Eight to advance to their first Final Four since 2005, showcasing a dominant run through the South Region.
- Keaton Wagler led Illinois with 25 points, supported by Tomislav Ivisic’s clutch 13 points in the second half and Andrej Stojakovic’s impactful 17 points off the bench.
- Despite Iowa's strong start and Bennett Stritz's 24 points, Illinois' size, skill, and defensive effort helped them control the game, especially in the second half.
- Illinois outrebounded Iowa 38-21 and capitalized on 13 second-chance points, while making six straight free throws in the final minute to seal the victory.
- The win cements Brad Underwood's status among elite coaches and positions Illinois as a legitimate contender for the program's first NCAA Tournament championship.
