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Iowa Hawkeyes Aim for Final Four Against Illinois

3/28/2026

38 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Hawkeyes Aim for Final Four

The Iowa Hawkeyes, No. 9 seed, face Illinois Fighting Illini in the Elite Eight on March 28, aiming for first Final Four since 1980.
Under first-year coach Ben McCollum, Iowa relies on Bennett Stirtz and Alvaro Folgueiras.
Illinois is favored by 6.5 points and features all five starters averaging double figures.
The winner represents the Big Ten in the Final Four, and Iowa seeks to avenge a prior loss.

Summary

Iowa-Nebraska Showdown

Iowa and Nebraska face off in a pivotal rematch on March 28 to determine a Final Four spot.
Each side has one win this season, with Iowa winning at home and Nebraska winning in overtime.
The matchup hinges on Iowa's ability to limit turnovers against Nebraska's defense.
Nebraska's offensive rebounding could shape the result.
Iowa's coach, Ben McCollum, has had a week to prepare, which may give them an edge.

Summary

Arizona Pursues Final Four

Arizona, the top seed, faces No. 2 Purdue in the Elite Eight on March 28 at SAP Center, San Jose.
Arizona is favored by 5.5 points and aims to reach a first Final Four since 2001 after defeating Arkansas 109-88.
Purdue narrowly beat Texas 79-77 to continue its strong postseason run.
Analysts credit Arizona's depth and physical play as advantages, while Purdue guard Fletcher Loyer shoots 60% from three-point range.

History

Historical Context

The 1985 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament marked a pivotal moment in college sports, introducing the "Cinderella" concept when No. 8 Villanova defeated top-seeded Georgetown 66-64. This upset, often called "The Perfect Game," showcased the tournament's unpredictability and has influenced subsequent tournaments, including Iowa's surprising run as a No. 9 seed, highlighting the NCAA's role in elevating collegiate basketball's profile.

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Hawkeyes Aim for Final Four

The Iowa Hawkeyes, No. 9 seed, face Illinois Fighting Illini in the Elite Eight on March 28, aiming for first Final Four since 1980.
Under first-year coach Ben McCollum, Iowa relies on Bennett Stirtz and Alvaro Folgueiras.
Illinois is favored by 6.5 points and features all five starters averaging double figures.
The winner represents the Big Ten in the Final Four, and Iowa seeks to avenge a prior loss.

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