"We're just so proud": Illini welcomed home by hundreds after punching Final Four ticket

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — Celebrations continued Sunday as the Fighting Illini men's basketball team returned home from their Elite Eight win over Iowa.

The Illini came out of the plane to a sea of orange and blue, as hundreds of fans packed Willard Airport to cheer them on.

"We're just so proud of these guys. They have fought hard," said Illini fan Sharon Grogan. "We watched all season. They've done it all. So, we're here to just let them know how much we love them and support them."

Fans had everything from signs and flags, to celebratory dances, as they waited for the team to land. For longtime fans, the return to the Final Four brought back memories of Illinois' unforgettable national champion runner-up team in 2005.

Now, Illini nation is rallying behind its team as they prepare for college basketball's biggest stage. The Final Four is on Saturday, April 4th inside Lucas Oil Stadium.