UConn's Mullins sinks Illini, advances to title game
PUBLISHED Apr 4, 2026, 11:29 PM ET
Read, Watch or Listen
Indianapolis. UConn freshman Braylon Mullins hit a go-ahead 3-pointer with 52 seconds remaining to secure a 71-62 Final Four win over Illinois on Saturday at Lucas Oil Stadium, sending the Huskies to the national title game; Mullins finished with 15 points in the victory. The victory preserved UConn's run to a third title game in four years and followed Mullins' earlier Elite Eight buzzer-beater; Tarris Reed Jr. contributed 17 points and 11 rebounds, and Coach Dan Hurley now prepares the Huskies to face either Arizona or Michigan on Monday night for the national championship.
By James Porter | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Elite Eight: Braylon Mullins hit a buzzer-beating shot to beat Duke and advance UConn.
- Prior to late game: UConn led Illinois by 14 before Illinois mounted a comeback.
- Final Four (Saturday): Illinois cut the lead to 63-59 late in Indianapolis.
- With 52 seconds left: Mullins hit a 3-pointer to extend UConn's lead to 66-59.
- Game end: UConn won 71-62 and advanced to the national championship game Monday.
News Intelligence
- UConn's victory over Illinois is a testament to the power of perseverance. Whether you're a fan, a parent, or a youth coach, it's a great reminder of the importance of staying focused until the final whistle. If you're planning to watch the championship game, expect a thrilling match.
- Articles Published:
- 5
- Right Leaning:
- 0
- Left Leaning:
- 0
- Neutral:
- 5
- Distribution:
- Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%
UConn men's basketball program, coaches, and players benefited by advancing to the national title game, reinforcing program momentum, recruiting appeal, and national exposure after the Final Four victory.
Illinois men's basketball program, its players and fans suffered the immediate disappointment of a Final Four loss that ended their tournament bid and hopes of reaching the championship.
Coverage of Story:
From Left
No left-leaning sources found for this story.
From Center
UConn's Mullins sinks Illini, advances to title game
CBS Sports ESPN.com (Insider) New Haven Register The Manila times Sports IllustratedFrom Right
No right-leaning sources found for this story.
Comments