Illinois men’s basketball is scheduled to play Iowa next, in the NCAA Tournament Elite Eight, on Saturday, March 28, 2026.

Quick Scoop: Who does Illinois play next in basketball?

Illinois’ next game is an NCAA Tournament matchup against the Iowa Hawkeyes in the South Region Elite Eight. The game is listed for Saturday, March 28, with a 6:09 p.m. tip time and national TV coverage (TBS/truTV).

Illinois advanced after beating Houston in the Sweet 16 in the South Region. Iowa reached this point out of the same region and is seeded No. 9, setting up a high‑stakes all–Big Ten showdown with a Final Four berth on the line.

In other words, if you’re searching “who does Illinois play next in basketball,” you’re looking at an Illinois vs. Iowa Elite Eight clash this weekend.

Context and recent form

  • Illinois is playing in the South Region of the NCAA Tournament after entering as a top‑three seed.
  • The Illini have just come off a statement win over Houston to reach the Elite Eight.
  • Iowa has made a run as a lower seed, setting up a familiar Big Ten opponent for Illinois on a neutral floor.

Why this matchup is buzzing

  • All‑Big Ten battle in March Madness always draws extra attention, since both teams know each other’s styles well from conference play.
  • The winner of Illinois vs. Iowa moves on to the Final Four, giving this “next game” enormous stakes for Illini fans.

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