How It Works
Arizona Wildcats vs Illinois Fighting Illini — March 25, 2005
89–90
About This Game
Arizona came into this 2005 Elite Eight meeting with Illinois firing on all cylinders. The Wildcats shot 50% from the field (32 of 64 attempts), dominated the glass with 39 rebounds, and smothered Illinois' offense with 8 blocks. Every statistical indicator suggested Arizona would win it through sheer efficiency. But Illinois had a potent counter-strategy: death by three-pointers. The Fighting Illini drained an astounding 16 three-pointers, compensating for their 42% overall field goal shooting with pure volume from distance. Remarkably, both teams made exactly 32 field goals, yet Illinois' emphasis on deep shots created the crucial difference. As Arizona's offensive rhythm was disrupted by 17 turnovers, Illinois survived a heart-stopping one-point thriller, 90-89 in overtime. Arizona's superior shooting efficiency, rebounding control, and defensive intensity nearly carried the day, but Illinois' relentless perimeter assault provided just enough firepower to survive. This game epitomizes modern basketball's offensive balance: Arizona's methodical, efficient approach against Illinois' three-point barrage. Experience every possession and defensive stand with a custom Gameprint bringing this close battle to life.
Game highlights: Arizona's 50% field goal shooting efficiency, Illinois' 16 three-pointers, Arizona's 8 blocks and rebounding dominance (39 boards), 1-point margin of victory, Both teams made exactly 32 field goals
Summary written with AI from the official play-by-play.
A Gift for Every Game
The best gifts for college basketball fans aren’t generic team merch — they’re personal. A Gameprint of Arizona Wildcats vs Illinois Fighting Illini captures a specific game that means something: a rivalry win, a season to remember, a night at the arena. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays.
Were you there? If you or a friend went to this game, a Gameprint turns that memory into a lasting keepsake — the exact game you watched live, every play on your wall. There’s a gift for every game you’ve ever been to.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Arizona Wildcats play Illinois Fighting Illini?
Arizona Wildcats played Illinois Fighting Illini on March 25, 2005.
What was the final score of Arizona Wildcats vs Illinois Fighting Illini?
The final score was Arizona Wildcats 89, Illinois Fighting Illini 90.
What does the Arizona Wildcats vs Illinois Fighting Illini Gameprint show?
Every possession — made shots, threes, free throws, misses and turnovers — from the official play-by-play of this game, laid out in order from tip-off to the final whistle, in your choice of team colors.
Is this a good gift for a Arizona Wildcats or Illinois Fighting Illini fan?
Yes — a Gameprint of Arizona Wildcats vs Illinois Fighting Illini is a one-of-a-kind gift. Unlike generic team merchandise, it captures a specific game they actually care about. Popular for birthdays, graduations, Father’s Day, and holiday gifts.
Can I gift this to someone who was at the game?
Absolutely. If a friend or family member attended Arizona Wildcats vs Illinois Fighting Illini, a Gameprint turns that memory into wall art — the actual plays from the game they watched live. Customize the colors to make it personal.
Sizes, framing, shipping and color options: see the Gameprints FAQ.
Arizona Wildcats vs Illinois Fighting Illini in numbers
- 10 lead changes
- 7 times tied
- 15-point largest lead (Arizona Wildcats)
- 11–0 run, the longest of the game (Illinois Fighting Illini)
- 23 made threes (Arizona Wildcats 7, Illinois Fighting Illini 16)
- 28 made free throws (Arizona Wildcats 18, Illinois Fighting Illini 10)
Illinois Fighting Illini came back from 15 points down to win 90–89. With 10 lead changes it was a back-and-forth game to the end.
Counted from the play-by-play behind this print — every possession on the poster is one of these plays.
