UConn Freshman Braylon Mullins Hits Clutch 3-Pointer in Final Four

Mullins' late-game heroics seal Huskies' victory over Illinois in national semifinal

Apr. 5, 2026 at 4:10am

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UConn freshman Braylon Mullins hit a crucial 3-pointer in the final minute to help the Huskies defeat Illinois 71-62 in the Final Four. Mullins' clutch shot cemented the victory for the Huskies, who are now one win away from the national championship.

Why it matters

Mullins has emerged as a star player for UConn this season, and his late-game heroics in the Final Four showcase his ability to perform under pressure and lead his team to victory on the biggest stage in college basketball.

The details

With UConn clinging to a narrow lead in the final minute, Mullins knocked down a 3-pointer from the left wing to extend the Huskies' advantage and all but seal the win. The freshman guard has been a key contributor for UConn all season, and his composure and clutch shooting in the Final Four have been instrumental to the team's success.

  • Mullins hit the game-clinching 3-pointer with 52 seconds remaining in the game.

The players

Braylon Mullins

A freshman guard for the UConn Huskies who hit the crucial 3-pointer to help his team defeat Illinois in the Final Four.

UConn Huskies

The men's basketball team from the University of Connecticut that advanced to the Final Four and defeated Illinois 71-62.

Illinois

The men's basketball team from the University of Illinois that lost to UConn in the Final Four.

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What they’re saying

“If that moment is going to be set up for me, absolutely,”

— Braylon Mullins, UConn Freshman

What’s next

UConn will advance to the national championship game, where they will face the winner of the other Final Four matchup.

The takeaway

Braylon Mullins' clutch 3-pointer in the Final Four showcases his ability to perform under pressure and lead his team to victory, cementing his status as a rising star for the UConn Huskies.