Déjà vu lifts Illinois to verge of Final Four
A familiar face, a familiar foe, a familiar circumstance, and a familiar outcome.
HOUSTON, TEXAS - MARCH 26: Kylan Boswell #4 of the Illinois Fighting Illini dribbles against the Houston Cougars during the first half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images) | Getty Images Two years ago, Illinois rolled into the round of 16. They were in a 2 vs.
3 matchup. Their opponent was a top 10ish program with a top 10ish coach. It was described as a matchup of the potent Illinois offense against its opponent’s elite defense.
Two years ago, Illinois had a dominant superstar guard on the way to becoming a first-round draft pick. Two years ago, Illinois advanced to the Elite 8 to face a program historically known for having an obnoxious head coach. Two years ago, Illinois was a 2.
5-point underdog. Two years ago, Illinois won that matchup against Iowa State. Thursday in Houston against Kelvin Sampson’s Cougars?
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