SPORTS

Illinois Women Beat Colorado, Advance to Second Round

PUBLISHED Mar 22, 2026, 12:49 AM ET

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Nashville — On Saturday night, seventh-seeded Illinois defeated tenth-seeded Colorado 66-57 in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Division I Women's Basketball Tournament at Memorial Gymnasium, led by freshman Cearah Parchment's 21 points and late contributions from Destiny Jackson. Illinois advances to play No. 2 seed Vanderbilt on Monday for a Sweet 16 berth; Berry Wallace added 18 points, Jasmine Brown-Hagger left the game briefly with an ankle sprain but returned, and Colorado finishes the season 22-12 after the loss.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Regular season concluded with Illinois at 22-11 and Colorado at 22-12 ahead of NCAA selection.
March 21, 2026: Illinois and Colorado met in the NCAA first round at Memorial Gymnasium in Nashville.
Cearah Parchment scored 21 points; Illinois built and preserved a late lead to win 66-57.
Jasmine Brown-Hagger suffered an ankle sprain in the third quarter but returned late in the game.
Illinois advanced to face No. 2 Vanderbilt on Monday for a Sweet 16 berth; Colorado's season ended.

News Intelligence

This win is a testament to Illinois' resilience, especially with a key player suffering an injury. If you're a fan, it's a proud moment. If you're a parent, it's a teachable moment about perseverance. Check the game's highlights and discuss them with your family.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 9
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 9

Who Benefited

The Illinois women's basketball program benefited most, gaining a tournament win, exposure for players and the coaching staff, and momentum heading into a second-round game against Vanderbilt.

Who Impacted

The Colorado women's basketball team concluded its season with a 66-57 loss, ending tournament play and the senior players' postseason opportunities while the program absorbs the defeat.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 9
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 9
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

The Illinois women's basketball program benefited most, gaining a tournament win, exposure for players and the coaching staff, and momentum heading into a second-round game against Vanderbilt.

Who Impacted

The Colorado women's basketball team concluded its season with a 66-57 loss, ending tournament play and the senior players' postseason opportunities while the program absorbs the defeat.