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Illinois reaches Final Four, beats Iowa 71-59

sportsMar 28, 2026152

Illinois beat Iowa 71-59 to reach the Final Four for the first time since 2005. Freshman Keaton Wagler led the Illini with 25 points. Illinois controlled the frontcourt and ended Iowa's underdog March run in the Elite Eight. The trip restores Illinois as a national contender and energizes its fan base.

Key Highlights

Keaton Wagler scored 25 points in Illinois' 71-59 win over Iowa.
Illinois reached its first Final Four since 2005 with a 71-59 victory.
Illinois dominated Iowa's frontcourt to end the Hawkeyes' underdog March run.