sports

Illinois defeats Houston to reach Final Four

Illinois beat Houston in the Sweet Sixteen, sending the Fighting Illini to the Final Four for the first time since 2024.

On March 26, 2026, Tomislav Ivisic #13 celebrated after Illinois defeated the Houston Cougars 78‑70 in the Sweet Sixteen at Toyota Center, Houston, Texas. The win secured Illinois’ place in the 2026 NCAA Final Four.

This victory marks the Illini’s first Final Four appearance in two years, highlighting a strong season that included a key win over a Big Ten opponent earlier in the tournament.