Illinois–Penn highlights
An extended highlight package from Illinois vs. Penn captures a tight first‑round NCAA game with the turning points and standout performances front and center — good film for scouting game management and late‑clock decisions (youtube.com).
Illinois routed Penn 105–70 in the NCAA Tournament first round on March 19, 2026, at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, S.C. (espn.com (espn.com)). Forward David Mirkovic posted 29 points and 17 rebounds and secured his eighth double‑double of the season in the win. (espn.com (espn.com)). Freshman Keaton Wagler finished with 18 points, seven assists and seven rebounds, pacing Illinois’ secondary scoring and playmaking. (fightingillini.com (fightingillini.com)). Illinois’ 105 points set the program record for scoring in an NCAA Tournament game, and the 35‑point margin was the second‑largest tourney victory in school history. (fightingillini.com (fightingillini.com)). The Illini opened a 14‑3 run early, led 40–30 at halftime and then outscored Penn 39–20 over an 11‑minute span in the second half to push the lead to 100–60 with 2:49 remaining. (fightingillini.com (fightingillini.com)). Illinois advanced to face No. 11 seed VCU in the Round of 32 on Saturday, March 21, 2026, with tip scheduled for 6:50 p.m. CT on CBS. (fightingillini.com (fightingillini.com)). VCU reached that matchup by rallying from a 19‑point deficit to beat North Carolina 82–78 in overtime in the first round, a comeback that featured Terrence Hill Jr.’s 34 points. (espn.com (espn.com)).
