How to live stream UConn vs Illinois: NCAA Final Four, time, TV channel
The 2026 NCAA Tournament Final Four tips off Saturday night as the UConn Huskies face the Illinois Fighting Illini at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Tip-off is set for 6:09 p. m.
ET on TBS and streaming on DIRECTV , as both teams battle for a spot in Monday’s national championship game. MORE: 8 most entertaining players to watch in the 2026 Final Four Mar 28, 2026; Houston, TX, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) controls the ball against Iowa Hawkeyes forward Cooper Koch (8) in the second half during an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images How to Watch UConn Huskies vs Illinois Fighting Illini When: Saturday, April 4, 2026 Time: 6:09 PM ET TV Channel: TBS, TNT, truTV Live Stream: DIRECTV ( watch now ) UConn enters the Final Four looking to continue its dominant postseason pedigree.
The Huskies have thrived on the biggest stage in recent years, winning back-to-back titles in 2023 and 2024 under Dan Hurley. They arrive in Indianapolis after a dramatic 73-72 Elite Eight win over Duke, showing resilience and clutch play under pressure. Meanwhile, Illinois is making its first Final Four appearance since 2005 and has surged behind a high-powered offense.
The Illini have leaned on balanced scoring and improved play down the stretch, emerging as one of the most dangerous teams left in the field. Their success is driven by perimeter shooting, and when they heat up from beyond the arc, they’re one of the hardest teams to stop. This matchup will pair UConn’s physical interior presence and experience versus Illinois’ offensive firepower and momentum.
Both teams have proven they can win in different ways, making this one of the most evenly matched semifinal games in recent memory. With a trip to the national championship on the line, expect a battle between two programs peaking at the right time. You can catch all the action on TBS, TNT, and truTV, and if you’re looking to stream the action, DIRECTV has you covered.