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Greenville Today
By the People, for the People
Illini Dominate Rams to Secure Thrilling Sweet 16 Spot
A March Madness Triumph for Illinois Basketball
Mar. 22, 2026 at 3:19am
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The Illinois men's basketball team secured a spot in the NCAA Tournament's Sweet 16 with a decisive 76-55 victory over VCU in the round of 32. Led by junior guard Andrej Stojakovic's 21 points, the Illini overcame an early deficit to pull away in the second half, highlighted by a series of spectacular slam dunks.
Why it matters
Illinois' win marks the second time in three years the team has advanced to the Sweet 16, showcasing the program's continued success and competitiveness in the NCAA Tournament. The victory also sets up an intriguing matchup against second-seeded Houston in the next round.
The details
Illinois started the game strong, jumping out to an 11-2 lead, but VCU fought back to take a late first-half lead. Stojakovic's 16 points in the half helped the Illini regain control and take a 35-28 advantage into the break. In the second half, Illinois quickly extended its lead to 20 points, fueled by a series of highlight-reel dunks, and cruised to the 21-point victory.
- The game was played on Saturday, March 22, 2026.
- Illinois will play Houston in the Sweet 16 next week.
The players
Andrej Stojakovic
A junior guard for the Illinois basketball team who led the way with 21 points in the win over VCU.
Tomislav Ivisic
An Illinois player who recorded a double-double, scoring 14 points and grabbing 11 rebounds.
Keaton Wagler
An Illinois player who scored in double digits in the victory.
Kylan Boswell
An Illinois player who scored in double digits in the victory.
Zvonimir Ivisic
An Illinois player who had a highlight-reel dunk during the second half.
What’s next
Illinois will play two seed Houston, in Houston, in the Sweet 16 next week.
The takeaway
Illinois' dominant performance in the round of 32 showcases the team's continued success in the NCAA Tournament, setting up an intriguing matchup against a tough Houston squad in the Sweet 16.
