HOUSTON — Illinois is headed to the Final Four for the first time since finishing as national runner-up in 2005 after a gritty 71-59 win against Big Ten foe Iowa in the South Regional. Freshman Keaton Wagler was outstanding in the performance, totaling 25 points to lead all scorers, and the resilience of the Fighting Illini was on full display as they roared back from an early 10-point deficit and took control of the game in the second half.
Illinois out-rebounded Iowa, and won around the rim late to be able to keep pace with Bennett Stirtz and Iowa’s shot-making.
There is devastation for the Hawkeyes, being so close to the Final Four and even controlling the game early, but Illinois’ ability to out-execute Iowa late made the difference.
CBS Sports will be with you throughout the entire way on Saturday with live updates, analysis and highlights as Illinois battles Iowa in the Elite Eight. Keep it locked here as the Fighting Illini and the Hawkeyes clash with a trip to the Final Four on the line, and you can watch all the action on March Madness Live.
