Illinois pulls away from Iowa late to reach first Final Four since 2005, end Hawkeyes' NCAA tournament run
The Illinois Illini have reached their first Final Four since 2005 after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes 71-59 in the Elite Eight matchup. The Illini will now face either Duke or UConn in the Final Four next weekend in Indianapolis.
Illinois defeated Iowa 71-59 to reach the Final Four. The Hawkeyes started strong, opening with a 12-2 run, but Illinois eventually took the lead in the second half. The Illini used a 10-1 run to break open an eight-point lead and held Iowa without a made field goal for over five minutes. Keaton Wagler led Illinois with 25 points, while Bennett Stirtz finished with 24 points for the Hawkeyes. Illinois outrebounded Iowa 35-20 and made seven of their last nine shots to secure the win. The Illini will face either Duke or UConn in the Final Four next weekend.
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