How Brad Underwood’s winning culture formula has led to a big 2026 Final Four run
Everyone is bought in, but will it be enough?
INDIANAPOLIS – The Illini have finally reached a high that fans were starving for since 2005. Under the bright lights at Lucas Oil Stadium, Illinois prepares for the moment that the entire season has led up to: the Final Four. “There’s a reason that we got here, and you don’t wanna get here and just fall short,” said veteran guard Kylan Boswell.
“Having that in the back of our head, being a motivating factor I think is the biggest thing. ” To add even more fuel to the fire, the Illini are searching for their get-back against the Huskies after the 74-61 loss at Madison Square Garden in late November, and of course, the Elite Eight loss in 2024 that saw UConn score 30 points unanswered. Yes, UConn has won its last seven Big Ten games.
Yes, UConn is 12-1 in the Final Four. “They’re a team that won’t go away,” freshman guard Keaton Wagler said. “They’re gonna fight till the end.
” But if every single Illini that steps on the court Saturday night has a stronger desire to win than the man in front of him, UConn may be in trouble. #Illini forward David Mirkovic showcasing his hustle, but big Z replies with a jam. pic.
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