Published

Sports30 March, 20261 min read

Braylon Mullins Seals UConn Win Over Illinois with 3-Pointer at 52 Seconds

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Braylon Mullins hit game-winning 3 to stun Duke, sending UConn to the Final Four. UConn defeated Illinois 71-62 in the Final Four to reach the national championship game.

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Braylon Mullins Seals UConn Win Over Illinois with 3-Pointer at 52 Seconds
Image: WRAL

Mullins Secures Victory

Braylon Mullins hit a clutch 3-pointer with 52 seconds remaining to secure a 71-62 victory for UConn over Illinois. Mullins finished with 15 points, while Tarris Reed Jr. had a 17-point, 11-rebound double-double.

Illinois freshman Keaton Wagler led his team with 20 points and eight rebounds. UConn held Illinois to 35% shooting and just three assists on the night.

Image from ABC7 Chicago
Image: ABC7 Chicago
Reporting for this sectionESPNWBAL-TVThe New York TimestheScore

Defensive Masterclass

UConn's victory was built on a defensive masterclass by Coach Dan Hurley's squad. Illinois was held to their second-lowest scoring output of the season and just 23% shooting from three-point range.

The Illini were limited to only three assists, far below their season average of 14.5. UConn made just 34% of their two-point attempts.

Image from ABC7 Chicago
Image: ABC7 Chicago
Reporting for this sectionThe New York TimestheScoreESPN Deportes

Rising UConn Dynasty

The win sends UConn to the national championship game for the third time in four years. Hurley said, You're set up for success at UConn with incredible coaches before me.

The Huskies have now won 19 straight games in the Sweet 16 or later rounds. Hurley was booed by Illinois fans after the game.

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March Madness Narrative

Mullins and Wagler became the first pair of freshmen to top 15 points in a Final Four game since Jordan and Ewing. The game was a storyline of contrasting styles and rising stars. Coverage emphasized UConn's defense and ability to withstand Illinois.

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