Illinois State Stuns Wake Forest, Advances in NIT

Redbirds hit game-winning 3-pointer in final seconds to defeat ACC opponent

Mar. 23, 2026 at 12:29am

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The Illinois State Redbirds pulled off a stunning 78-75 victory over the Wake Forest Demon Deacons in the NIT on Sunday. Johnny Kinziger hit a clutch 3-pointer with just 2 seconds left to secure the win for Illinois State, who rallied from multiple deficits throughout the game. This marks the Redbirds' first win over an ACC opponent since 2006.

Why it matters

This victory represents a significant milestone for the Illinois State program, as they were able to defeat a strong ACC opponent on the road in a high-pressure postseason matchup. The Redbirds' ability to overcome multiple deficits and execute in the final seconds showcases their growing resilience and competitive edge.

The details

Illinois State started the game with a 3-pointer from Landon Wolf, but Wake Forest responded with a 10-0 run. The Redbirds then scored 6 of the next 8 points, only to see the Demon Deacons go on another 6-0 run. Trailing 18-9, Illinois State rallied with a 15-4 run to take a 24-22 lead. The first half ended tied at 32. In the second half, Wake Forest briefly led by 1 before going on a 6-0 run to go up by 7. The Demon Deacons extended their lead to 9 with 9:21 left, but Illinois State answered with 5 straight points, including a 3 from Johnny Kinziger. The Redbirds then took their first second-half lead with an 8-0 run capped by a Ty Pence 3-pointer. The lead changed hands 4 times and was tied 5 times before Kinziger's game-winning shot in the final seconds.

  • Illinois State last defeated an ACC opponent on December 5, 2006, when they beat the Miami Hurricanes.
  • The game between Illinois State and Wake Forest took place on Sunday, March 23, 2026.

The players

Johnny Kinziger

The Illinois State guard hit the game-winning 3-pointer with 2 seconds left to secure the victory over Wake Forest.

Ty Pence

The Illinois State player scored a career-high 23 points, including 17 in the second half, to lead the Redbirds' comeback effort.

Wake Forest Demon Deacons

The ACC opponent that Illinois State defeated in the NIT matchup.

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What’s next

Illinois State will advance to play the Dayton Flyers on Wednesday, March 25, though the game time and broadcast network are yet to be announced.

The takeaway

Illinois State's stunning victory over a strong ACC opponent in the NIT demonstrates the program's continued growth and ability to compete at a high level in the postseason. The Redbirds' resilience and clutch performance in the final seconds will provide them with valuable momentum as they prepare to face Dayton in the next round.