Illinois is heading back to the Final Four for the first time since 2005, and the Illini made sure there was no doubt about it. Behind a powerful interior attack and a poised second‑half surge, Illinois pulled away from Iowa 71–59 to end the Hawkeyes’ Cinderella run and claim the South Region title. Freshman Keaton Wagler, who poured in 25 points, set the tone early and never let up.
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Wagler shines as Illinois controls the paint
Wagler, named the region’s Most Outstanding Player, delivered the kind of performance that cements March legends. He attacked relentlessly, finishing through contact and stabilizing Illinois whenever Iowa threatened. The Illini’s size advantage was overwhelming — they outrebounded Iowa 38–21 and outscored the Hawkeyes 40–12 in the paint. Tomislav and Zvonimir Ivisic, the 7‑foot twins who have emerged as March revelations, controlled the glass and altered everything around the rim.
Iowa’s magical run hits a wall
Iowa entered the night riding momentum from its upset of top‑seeded Florida, but Illinois’ physicality and length disrupted everything the Hawkeyes wanted to do. Bennett Stirtz kept Iowa afloat with 24 points, yet the Hawkeyes struggled to generate clean looks and couldn’t space the floor against Illinois’ size. When the game tightened late, Illinois answered with an 8–0 burst and never looked back.
Underwood’s recruiting vision pays off
Coach Brad Underwood has built this roster with a clear identity — size, toughness, and international skill. That blueprint paid off in Houston. The Ivisic twins dominated the interior, David Mirkovic grabbed 12 rebounds, and Andrej Stojakovic added 17 points while flashing the poise of a veteran. Illinois’ blend of youth, length, and discipline proved too much for Iowa to handle.
Illini head to Indianapolis with championship dreams
This marks Illinois’ sixth Final Four appearance, and the program still seeks its first national championship. With momentum, matchup‑proof size, and a star freshman playing beyond his years, the Illini head to Indianapolis believing this run can end with a trophy. As Wagler put it, “We’re not done yet.”
