INDIANAPOLIS - The Iowa Hawkeyes’ basketball season came to a disheartening end on Thursday, March 13, 2025, as they fell to the Illinois Fighting Illini by 106-94 during the second round of the Big Ten Tournament at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. This loss effectively eliminated Iowa from postseason contention, marking the second consecutive year they will miss the NCAA Tournament.
A thrilling contest saw the two teams remain neck-and-neck throughout the first half, culminating with the score sitting at 49-45 favoring Illinois at the break. The Hawkeyes shot impressively, hitting 54.9% from the field and 45.8% from three-point range, but defensive inconsistencies and pivotal moments stripped them of any momentum.
Iowa’s star player, senior forward Payton Sandfort, delivered one of the standout performances of his career, scoring 30 points on 11-for-20 shooting, including eight three-pointers. Despite his efforts, the Hawkeyes could not keep pace with Illinois’s explosive offense, driven by Kylan Boswell's career-high 24 points, Tre White’s 22 points, and Will Riley’s contributions of 21 points.
The game shifted dramatically with approximately 13:33 left to play when Iowa coach Fran McCaffery was ejected after receiving two technical fouls as Iowa trailed 69-60. "I’m always going to advocate for my guys. That’s my job," McCaffery expressed afterwards, emphasizing his commitment to his players. His ejection allowed Illinois to extend its lead, as they converted four free throws during the incident, leading to more struggles for the Hawkeyes.
Postgame, McCaffery affirmed his intention to remain as head coach for the next season, stating, "I do" when asked if he expected to return. This marks the second assurance he has made about his future with the program, even following one of the worst seasons of his tenure with Iowa finishing 17-16 overall.
Reflecting on his squad’s performance, McCaffery noted, "This is one of my favorite teams I’ve ever coached." He expressed pride not only for how they fought until the end on Thursday but across the entire season, showcasing the resilience and character of players like Sandfort, who spoke about his commitment to the Hawkeye program. "It’s the greatest honor of my life to be able to represent the Black and Gold. I wish I could repay this place as much as it gave to me," he said, clearly emotional as he faced his final moments on the court as a Hawkeye.
Although Iowa boasted impressive individual statistics, they struggled defensively against Illinois, who shot 53.8% from the field and overwhelmed Iowa on the boards, recording 41 rebounds to Iowa’s 24. Illinois’s rebounding prowess translated to 17 second-chance points, which proved pivotal as the game progressed.
The Illini's depth shone through this game, featuring five players scoring double digits. Tomislav Ivisic, playing effectively with his size as both a rebounder and shooter, contributed 19 points and 10 rebounds. The scoring power from Illinois underscored their offensive balance, making it tough for Iowa to execute their game plan effectively.
Iowa's record this season adds to the scrutiny surrounding McCaffery's leadership, particularly since Iowa has not won a game in the NCAA Tournament since 2021 and will miss the dance for back-to-back years for the first time since 2017 and 2018.
Looking forward, questions linger about the future for Iowa basketball. Will the program choose to pursue alternative postseason opportunities such as the National Invitation Tournament, or will McCaffery’s leadership endure another season as the core of Iowa is expected to build on their challenges from this year, fortified by notable recruits for the upcoming round?
With uncertainty surrounding the team, Hawkeye fans will be eager to see what the program decides to do as the disappointment of this season fades away and discussions about future potential commence.
For now, the focus shifts to Illinois, who will advance and take on No. 2 seed Maryland on Friday, as they look to capitalize on their momentum heading toward the tournament’s later stages.