SportsLine's model simulated Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Connecticut Huskies and revealed its NCAA Tournament 2026 Final Four picks for Saturday

It had all the makings of a special weekend for Illinois at the Final Four — until UConn spoiled the party early, ending the Illini’s season Saturday with a 71-62 win.

Illinois basketball continues to struggle against UConn after the Final Four loss. Now a huge stat proves how the Huskies own the series.

Illinois managed to make things somewhat interesting down the stretch against UConn, but fell in disappointing fashion after a spirited run. The Fighting Illini knew they had many chances to grab control at various points of the game, but failed to do so as layups and floaters around the rim consistently bounced around and out.

Illinois head coach Brad Underwood got emotional discussing his team at his press conference after the Final Four loss to UConn.

UConn will play for a national championship on Monday night after beating Illinois 71-62 tonight in Indianapolis in the NCAA Tournament Final Four. The Huskies will face Michigan for the title. UConn will be looking to win its seventh national championship and its third under head coach Dan Hurley.

The Illini's first Final Four appearance in more than 20 years came to an abrupt halt Saturday night in Indianapolis up against UConn.

Camryn Crocker reveals for the first time that his newborn daughter and wife fought for their lives as his first season as an Illinois coach played out.

The Illini had no answers against the Huskies' defense on Saturday. UConn coach Dan Hurley reveals his club's game plan in the matchup.

Illinois is heading to the Final Four for the first time in 21 years, and Andrej Stojakovic made clear the Fighting Illini have much bigger goals.

Many European teenagers are delaying professional careers to play American college basketball, including several who chose to play at Illinois.