Chicago, IL: After a 72-69 victory over Iowa State in Thursday night’s East Region quarterfinal, Illinois advanced to the Elite Eight for the first time since 2005, thanks to 29 points from Terrence Shannon Jr.
The third-seeded Illini (29-8) never trailed and were paced by Shannon’s 20 points in the first half. With a last-second dunk and two free throws, he helped Illinois defeat the second-seeded Cyclones (29-8).
Illinois will face the defending champions, UConn, on Saturday in a regional final, making it their fourth appearance in the last 40 years. The winner advances to the Final Four. In the first East semifinal game, the top-seeded Huskies prevailed against San Diego State, 82–52.
Before their run to March Madness, Iowa State had dominated Houston in the Big 12 Tournament, and Curtis Jones was a big reason why. Jones finished with 26 points.
The crowds Thursday night were brimming with Illini spirit as the third-seeded Illini defeated Iowa State in the NCAA Tournament.
Weather Mark Tavern, located at 1503 S. Michigan Ave. in the South Loop, was filled with orange-and-blue-clad fans and alums during the game.
“I’ve been an Illini fan a long time, and graduated a long, long time ago; was there for the ’89 Fighting Illini,” said Scott Harms, an Illini fan.
With a 72-69 victory over Iowa State, the Fighting Illini fulfilled the hopes of their fans and advanced to the Elite 8 of the NCAA Tournament. The Illini’s 1989 run to the Final Four, when they were defeated by Michigan en route to becoming national champions, had fans optimistic that this year’s team would go even farther.