Hawkeyes Advance to Sweet 16

TAMPA, Fla. – In a stunning upset that reverberated through the NCAA Tournament, No. 9 seed Iowa eliminated defending national champion Florida 73-72 on Sunday night. The victory, secured by a clutch three-pointer from Alvaro Folgueiras with just 4.5 seconds remaining, sends the Hawkeyes to the Sweet 16 for the first time since 1999.

Iowa’s improbable run continues under first-year coach Ben McCollum, while Florida (27-8) becomes the first No. 1 seed to fall in this year’s March Madness.

Folgueiras Delivers in the Clutch

The game hung in the balance as Iowa trailed by two points with 8.9 seconds left. After a missed Florida three-pointer, Iowa broke the Gators’ full-court press, finding Folgueiras open in the corner.

“I’m going to be ready,” Folgueiras told Bennett Stirtz, “and I’m going to make it.”

Matt Baker, The New York Times

Stirtz, facing a defensive double-team, delivered the pass and Folgueiras calmly sank the game-winning shot.

A Game of Runs and Intensity

Iowa built a lead as large as 12 points, but Florida battled back, tying the game multiple times in the second half. Xaivian Lee’s layup gave the Gators a late lead, but Iowa responded quickly.

The game was also marked by a physical first half, including a scuffle between Florida’s Alex Condon and Folgueiras that resulted in technical fouls for both players.

“I didn’t throw a punch,” Folgueiras said. “It’s March Madness. Everybody wants to win.”

Ryan Young, Yahoo Sports

Key Performances

• Tavion Banks led Iowa with 20 points.
• Alvaro Folgueiras finished with 14 points and 5 rebounds.
• Bennett Stirtz added 13 points for the Hawkeyes.
• Alex Condon paced Florida with 21 points, followed by Thomas Haugh with 19 and Xaivian Lee with 17.

Looking Ahead

Iowa will face No. 4 seed Nebraska in the South Region semifinals on Thursday night in Houston.

“They fight, they compete, they exemplify everything we desire in Iowa basketball,”

Ben McCollum

The Hawkeyes are embracing their underdog status and are determined to continue their improbable tournament run.

FAQ

Who won the Iowa vs. Florida game?

Iowa defeated Florida 73-72.

Who made the game-winning shot?

Alvaro Folgueiras made the game-winning three-pointer with 4.5 seconds remaining.

When is Iowa’s next game?

Iowa will play Nebraska in the Sweet 16 on Thursday night in Houston.