Hometown Hero Braylon Mullins Leads UConn to National Title Game

Mullins' clutch 3-pointer caps off a team effort as Huskies advance to championship

Apr. 5, 2026 at 3:06am

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Freshman phenom Braylon Mullins hit the game-clinching 3-pointer in the final minute to lead UConn to a 71-62 victory over Illinois in the Final Four. But the defining shot was the result of a complete team effort, with each of UConn's starters contributing in key ways to set up Mullins' heroics.

Why it matters

Mullins has emerged as a hometown hero for UConn, delivering clutch performances in the NCAA Tournament. The Huskies' ability to put their players in position to succeed has been a hallmark of their run to the national title game.

The details

With Illinois threatening to cut the deficit to a one-possession game, UConn's starters executed a series of screens and passes to free up Mullins for the decisive 3-pointer. Senior forward Alex Karaban set up the play with a pump fake, point guard Silas Demary Jr. fought for an offensive rebound, and center Tarris Reed provided the screen that allowed Mullins to get an open look.

  • With 52 seconds remaining, Mullins hit the 3-pointer that put UConn ahead 66-59.
  • Earlier in the second half, Illinois had roared back from a 14-point deficit to cut UConn's lead to 63-59.

The players

Braylon Mullins

A freshman phenom who has emerged as a hometown hero for UConn, delivering clutch performances in the NCAA Tournament.

Alex Karaban

A senior forward and the Huskies' all-time wins leader, who set up the game-clinching play with a key pump fake.

Silas Demary Jr.

UConn's gutsy point guard, who fought for a crucial offensive rebound and found Mullins for the game-sealing 3-pointer.

Tarris Reed

The Huskies' physical center, whose screen helped free Mullins for the decisive shot.

Solomon Ball

UConn's versatile forward, who had the presence of mind to pull the ball out and run clock on the game-clinching possession.

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What they’re saying

“If that moment is going to be set up for me, absolutely. You've got to shoot it with confidence, and if that moment arises, then we're going to hit it.”

— Braylon Mullins, Freshman Guard

“We have so many actions, and it's tough for a team to be locked in on the movement.”

— Alex Karaban, Senior Forward

“I think as the year went on and the chemistry got better and better, I was able to read his feet when he's coming off that screen so he can get into his one-two, and not pass it too early but pass it just on time.”

— Silas Demary Jr., Junior Point Guard

What’s next

UConn will face the winner of the other Final Four matchup in the national championship game on Monday night.

The takeaway

Braylon Mullins has become the face of UConn's tournament run, but the Huskies' success is a testament to their entire team and coaching staff. By executing their intricate offensive sets to perfection, they have created the perfect stage for Mullins to shine as the hometown hero.