March Madness: Illinois vs. UConn predictions for Final Four

The Illinois Fighting Illini have reached the Final Four in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2005.

They have a Final Four battle with No. 2 seed UConn, a 73-72 winner over No. 1 seed Duke in a stunning, last-second victory on Sunday that instantly joined March Madness lore.

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When the 28-8 Illini tip against 33-5 UConn, it will mark the third time in four seasons UConn has reached the Final Four. The Illini have reached the Final Four for the sixth time in their program history and carry a 1-4 all-time record in it.

The odds favor them this time, though, and signs point to a possible Big Ten matchup between Illinois and Michigan in the national title game Monday.

Here are the betting odds, broadcast schedule and a few predictions heading into the game:

Illinois vs. UConn game time

Head coach Brad Underwood of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrates cutting down the net after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 28, 2026 in Houston, Texas.

◾Round: NCAA Final Four

◾Site: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Ind.

◾Tip-off time: Saturday, 5:09 p.m. Central

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◾Where to watch: TBS/TNT/Tru TV with Ian Eagle, Bill Raftery, Grant Hill, Tracy Wolfson

◾Where to stream: March Madness Live app, and HBO Max.

Illinois vs. UConn odds, betting info

Odds courtesy of Covers as of Tuesday night, March 31.

If you’re new to sports betting, don’t worry. We have tips for beginners on how to place a bet online. And USA TODAY Network readers can claim exclusive promos and bonus codes with these online sportsbooks and sports betting sites.

Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) cuts the net after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in an Elite Eight game of the South Region of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.

Illinois vs UConn basketball predictions

The Journal Star staff makes its picks for Illinois basketball vs. UConn:

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Illinois 67, UConn 64: These…

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Publish date : 2026-04-01 08:28:00

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