Illinois Looks to Avoid Repeat Collapse in Final Four Matchup Against UConn

Illini seek redemption after blowout loss to Huskies in 2024 Elite Eight

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:25pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting the action of a college basketball game, with the competing teams' colors and uniforms fractured into sharp, overlapping shapes and planes.Illinois seeks redemption against UConn's battle-tested squad in a high-stakes Final Four clash.Indianapolis Today

The Illinois men's basketball team is back in the Final Four for the first time since 2005, but they face a daunting task against a battle-tested UConn squad that blew them out in the 2024 Elite Eight. The Illini are determined to not let the big stage overwhelm them this time around, vowing to 'spill their guts' and leave everything on the court against the defending national champions.

Why it matters

Illinois' last Final Four appearance ended in heartbreak, as they were unable to find their best effort in the national title game against North Carolina. The Illini are hoping to avoid a similar letdown this time around and prove they can compete with college basketball's elite on the biggest stage.

The details

Two years ago, Illinois was blown out by UConn 53-25 in a stunning collapse during the Elite Eight. The Illini went over 10 minutes of game time without scoring a single point, a mind-boggling stretch that left the team deflated. Now, Illinois has a chance at redemption against the defending champion Huskies, who are led by senior forward Karaban, a key member of that 2024 title team.

  • Illinois last reached the Final Four in 2005.
  • The Illini were blown out by UConn 53-25 in the 2024 Elite Eight.

The players

Brad Underwood

The Illinois head coach is making his first Final Four appearance.

Karaban

A senior forward for UConn who was part of the Huskies' 2024 national championship team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“You definitely could see moments where it was deflating them. It was such a special run. Score, stop, score. And then celebrate after.”

— Karaban, UConn Senior Forward

“The one that's going to haunt you forever.”

— Dee Brown, Former Illinois Star

What’s next

The winner of the Illinois-UConn matchup will advance to the national championship game on Monday.

The takeaway

Illinois has a chance to exorcise the demons of its 2024 Elite Eight collapse against UConn, but the Illini must stay focused and 'spill their guts' to have a shot at the title game. The big stage has overwhelmed them before, but this experienced team is determined not to let it happen again.