How sweet it is! The Iowa Hawkeyes are heading back to the Sweet 16 for the first time since 1999, pulling off an electrifying upset against the No. 1-seeded Florida Gators, the reigning national champions, right in Tampa, Florida.
The final score? A nail-biting 73-72.
This was a game that had it all-intensity, physicality, and a back-and-forth battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Iowa found the late-game magic to make crucial stops and hit clutch shots when it mattered most. From start to finish, the Hawkeyes showed they were in control.
Shooting 51% compared to Florida’s 50%, Iowa also edged out with seven three-pointers to Florida’s six. Against one of the tallest teams in the nation, Iowa matched them on the boards, 27-27, and importantly, outscored them in the paint, 32-30.
This victory sets the stage for an epic Sweet 16 showdown against their rivals, the Nebraska Cornhuskers.
Fearless from the Start
Right from the tip-off, Iowa showed no signs of intimidation against the defending champs. Despite Florida’s size advantage and the home-court feel, the Hawkeyes, led by Ben McCollum, came out swinging.
McCollum’s fiery leadership was evident, especially during some tense first-half moments. Iowa embraced the physical battle, outplaying Florida at their own game in the paint and on the boards.
Cooper Koch’s Clutch Performance
As the game tightened and Florida began to rally, Cooper Koch stepped up, delivering some vital three-pointers that kept Iowa afloat. Koch finished with 12 points, hitting 4 of 6 from beyond the arc, each shot more crucial than the last.
Tavion Banks’ Big Night
Tavion Banks may not have matched Florida’s bigs in size, but he more than made up for it with heart and hustle. Leading Iowa with 20 points on an efficient 7-10 shooting, Banks also grabbed six rebounds, four of them offensive, providing Iowa with essential extra possessions.
Alvaro Folgueiras’ Legendary Moment
What. A.
Shot. Alvaro Folgueiras etched his name into Iowa lore with a game-winning shot that sealed the Hawkeyes’ return to the Sweet 16.
As the clock ticked down, Folgueiras received a pass from Stirtz, stepped back, and launched a three-pointer that was perfect from the moment it left his hand. He wrapped up the game with 14 points and five rebounds, forever a hero in Iowa history.
Iowa vs. Nebraska: The Trilogy
Now, it’s time for Iowa and Nebraska to face off for the third time this season, with everything on the line. Iowa took the first matchup, 57-52, on home turf, while Nebraska claimed the second, 84-75, with a late surge at their place.
This Sweet 16 clash promises to be a thriller, with a coveted spot in the Elite 8 at stake. Both programs are riding historic NCAA Tournament runs, and this matchup is set to be one for the ages.