UConn Reaches 3rd National Title Game in 4 Seasons

Huskies defeat Illinois 71-62 in Final Four, seek 7th national championship

Apr. 5, 2026 at 5:35am

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The UConn Huskies defeated the Illinois Fighting Illini 71-62 in the Final Four on Saturday night, advancing to the national championship game for the third time in four seasons. Led by Tarris Reed Jr.'s 17 points and 11 rebounds, as well as a clutch 3-pointer from freshman Braylon Mullins, the Huskies muscled their way to victory with strong interior play and tough defense.

Why it matters

UConn's return to the national title game continues the program's dominant run under head coach Dan Hurley, who is seeking his third championship in four seasons. The Huskies' sustained excellence at the highest level of college basketball cements their status as one of the premier programs in the sport.

The details

Freshman Keaton Wagler led Illinois with 20 points and 8 rebounds, but the Fighting Illini struggled from 3-point range, making just 6 of 26 attempts. UConn overcame two long scoring droughts, including one in the second half that allowed Illinois to charge back and get within 4 points, before the Huskies closed out the game at the free-throw line.

  • UConn beat Illinois 74-61 on November 28 in Madison Square Garden.
  • UConn beat Illinois 77-52 in the Elite Eight two years ago.
  • The Huskies will face Arizona or Michigan in the national championship game on Monday night.

The players

Tarris Reed Jr.

UConn forward who had 17 points and 11 rebounds in the Final Four win.

Braylon Mullins

UConn freshman who hit a clutch 3-pointer late in the game to help seal the victory.

Keaton Wagler

Illinois freshman who led the Fighting Illini with 20 points and 8 rebounds.

Dan Hurley

UConn head coach seeking his third national championship in four seasons.

Alex Karaban

UConn senior trying to become the first player since John Wooden's UCLA teams to win three national titles.

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What they’re saying

“You're set up for success at UConn. Geno Auriemma, Jim Calhoun, Kevin Ollie, just some incredible coaches before me. I've got the best staff in the country. I've got an incredible group of players. And there's nothing like the bus ride to the stadium on Monday night when you're one of the last two teams standing.”

— Dan Hurley, UConn Head Coach

“We're so ready for the national championship game. This is what I came here for. Let's get it on Monday.”

— Braylon Mullins, UConn Freshman

What’s next

UConn will face either Arizona or Michigan in the national championship game on Monday night, as the Huskies seek their 7th national title and 3rd under head coach Dan Hurley.

The takeaway

UConn's return to the national title game is a testament to the program's sustained excellence under Dan Hurley, who has quickly built the Huskies into one of the premier college basketball powers in the country. With a chance to win their 3rd championship in 4 seasons, UConn is poised to cement its status as a modern-day dynasty.