Gallery | Illinois fans celebrate at Alma Mater statue after team makes Elite Eight

Alyssa Shih
Students swarm Alma Mater after Illinois wins against Iowa State, making it to the Elite 8 on March 28.

Anh-Khoi Pham
Ellie Curshellas and Charlotte Watson celebrates Illinois’ win over Iowa State to advance to the Elite 8.

Anh-Khoi Pham
Students celebrate Illinois’ win over Iowa State to advance to the Elite 8 at Alma Mater.

Angel Saldivar
Freshman Eden Pressburger celebrates in front of Alma Mater on March 28.

Alyssa Shih
Charlie Remmers, sophomore in LAS, and Christopher Ford, sophomore in LAS, celebrate with pictures in front of Alma Mater after Illinois won against Iowa State on March 28.

Jacob Slabosz
Following Illinois’ win, massive crowds of orange and blue crowded Alma Mater.

Jacob Slabosz
Multiple cars drove up and down Green Street, blaring music and honking their horns.

Angel Saldivar
Students mount the tree near Alma Mater in celebration of Illinois’ win over Iowa State.

Angel Saldivar
Illinois fan shotguns beer in front of Alma Mater on March 28.

About the Contributors

Jacob Slabosz, Editor-in-Chief

Hey, I’m Jacob! I am currently a sophomore in computer engineering with a minor in German. I started at The Daily Illini in Fall 2022 as a news reporter and staff photographer, and by Spring 2023, I had worked my way to photo editor. Between March 2023 and March 2024, I was the Managing Editor for Visuals, and I have since taken over as Editor-in-Chief. When I’m not taking pictures for The DI or for fun, I enjoy cooking, water sports and tending to my numerous houseplants. I’m excited to use my background in coding to further automate out workspace processes and to see the content that our team produces!

Angel Saldivar, Assistant Photo Editor

Hey there, you might recognize me as the photographer who's often at community events in Champaign-Urbana with a camera in hand. I'm currently finishing my Journalism degree at the University of Illinois. Since my first year in 2020, I have been capturing moments for the Illini Media Company, and I've recently become the Assistant Photo Editor. Filmmaking is another passion of mine – shoutout to my film club Illini Film and Video! Keep an eye out, as you could see me filming the next big hit on campus. When I am not using the camera, I am usually playing the drums. Should you have any inquiries, please don't hesitate to send me an email!