Illinois Basketball Dominates Second Half to Advance to Sweet 16

Andrej Stojakovic's big first half performance sets the stage for a decisive victory over VCU

Mar. 22, 2026 at 5:20am

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The Illinois Fighting Illini overcame a shaky start to beat the VCU Rams 76-55 in the NCAA Tournament's Round of 32. After trailing by as many as 12 points in the first half, Illinois went on a dominant run in the second half to pull away and secure a spot in the Sweet 16. Andrej Stojakovic led the Illini with 21 points, while Tomislav Ivisic and Keaton Wagler also made key contributions.

Why it matters

Illinois' victory over VCU showcases the team's ability to overcome adversity and make adjustments, which will be crucial as they advance deeper into the NCAA Tournament. The Illini's frontcourt dominance and balanced scoring attack proved too much for the Rams, highlighting the team's potential to make a deep run.

The details

Illinois struggled early, with VCU's intense defensive pressure causing problems for the Illini offense. However, Stojakovic stepped up in a big way, scoring 11 straight points to close the first half and give Illinois a 35-28 lead at the break. In the second half, the Illini found their rhythm, with Ivisic controlling the paint and the team's guards making plays. Illinois pulled away with a dominant 41-27 second-half performance.

  • Illinois opened the game on a 9-2 run.
  • Stojakovic scored 16 points in the first half to keep Illinois in front.
  • Illinois started the second half with an 8-2 run to extend their lead.
  • Ivisic had a highlight-reel alley-oop dunk early in the second half.
  • Wagler hit a dagger 3-pointer late to seal the victory for Illinois.

The players

Andrej Stojakovic

A key bench player for Illinois who scored 21 points, including 11 straight in the first half, to keep the Illini in the game early.

Tomislav Ivisic

Illinois' starting center who finished with 14 points and 11 rebounds, dominating the paint and helping the Illini control the glass.

Keaton Wagler

An Illinois guard who scored 14 points, including a late 3-pointer that put the game out of reach for VCU.

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What they’re saying

“Andrej Stojakovic legacy game? 👀”

— Kellen 'KellDawg' Sherman

“ZVONIMIR IVISIC WANTS TO GO HIGHER!!!!! #Illini #MarchMadness”

— Kellen 'KellDawg' Sherman

What’s next

Illinois will face a tough challenge in the Sweet 16 against Houston, but the Illini's dominant second-half performance against VCU has them feeling confident heading into the next round.

The takeaway

Illinois' ability to weather an early storm and then pull away in the second half showcases the team's resilience and depth, which will be crucial as they continue their March Madness run. The Illini's balanced scoring attack and frontcourt dominance make them a dangerous opponent for any team remaining in the tournament.