VCU’s impressive 2025-26 season concluded Saturday night with a 76-55 loss to third-seeded Illinois in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, played at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
The Game
Sophomore guard Terrence Hill Jr. Led the Rams with 17 points and seven rebounds. Senior forward Barry Evans and junior guard Tyrell Ward each contributed 11 points for VCU. Illinois was led by Andrej Stojakovic, who scored 21 points.
Key to the Outcome
VCU struggled with its shooting accuracy, finishing the game with a 35 percent field goal percentage (23-of-66), and 22 percent from beyond the arc (7-of-32). Illinois capitalized, shooting 48 percent from the field (28-of-58) and securing a 45-29 rebounding advantage. The Fighting Illini also outscored VCU 17-11 in points off turnovers.
The Rams briefly held a lead at 28-26 following a basket by Hill with 3:09 remaining in the first half, capping a 15-3 run. However, Illinois responded strongly, with Stojakovic scoring the final nine points of the half to accept a 35-28 lead into the break. Illinois continued its momentum into the second half, opening with a 15-4 run to extend their lead to 50-32 with 13:24 left to play.
VCU finished the 2025-26 season with 28 wins, tied for the second-most in program history.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Terrence Hill Jr. Perform?
Terrence Hill Jr. Led VCU with 17 points and seven rebounds. He had previously scored a career-high 34 points in Thursday’s win over North Carolina, but shot 7-of-16 from the field against Illinois.
What was the score at halftime?
Illinois led VCU 35-28 at halftime.
How many times has VCU been to the NCAA Tournament?
This was VCU’s 21st NCAA Tournament appearance in program history.
As Illinois advances to the Sweet 16, what adjustments will other teams demand to develop to counter their rebounding dominance and efficient shooting?
