TAMPA, Fla. (AP) – Alvaro Folgueiras delivered a critical three-pointer with just 4.5 seconds left, securing a dramatic 73-72 victory for Iowa over top-seeded Florida in the NCAA Tournament’s second round on Sunday.
This win marked Iowa’s first advancement to the Sweet 16 since 1999, eliminating the defending champion Gators, who finished their season at 27-8.
Iowa’s Journey in the Tournament
Under the guidance of first-year coach Ben McCollum, Iowa (23-12) showcased resilience by overcoming a 12-point deficit in the second half. This victory made Iowa the first No. 9 seed to defeat a No. 1 seed since 2018, when Florida State triumphed over Xavier. The Hawkeyes are set to face No. 4 seed Nebraska in the South Region semifinals on Thursday in Houston.
Key Moments of the Game
With less than two minutes remaining, Xaivian Lee’s layup gave Florida a brief lead at 71-68. However, Bennett Stirtz quickly responded with a floater, narrowing the score to 71-70 with 57 seconds left. After both teams exchanged missed opportunities, Iowa managed to break Florida’s press, leading to Folgueiras’s open three-pointer.
Stirtz, who was initially the focus of the play, recognized Folgueiras’s position and passed him the ball when the defense collapsed on him.
Coaches’ Perspectives
McCollum praised his team’s spirit, stating, “They fight, they compete, they exemplify everything we want in Iowa basketball.” Florida coach Todd Golden acknowledged the defeat, expressing disappointment but also crediting Iowa’s strong performance, particularly in the first half.
Golden remarked, “A disappointing result for us tonight, but credit Iowa. They played well, especially in the first half.”
Player Highlights and Statistics
Tavion Banks led Iowa with 20 points, while Folgueiras contributed 14 points and Stirtz added 13 points despite a challenging shooting night. For Florida, Alex Condon topped the scoring with 21 points, followed by Thomas Haugh with 19 and Lee with 17.
Game Atmosphere and Fan Reactions
The game, played at Benchmark International Arena, felt like a home match for Florida, surrounded by a supportive crowd. Many fans left in shock after the unexpected outcome, reflecting the intensity of March Madness.
Stirtz noted, “We’re the only ones who believed in us and it’ll probably stay that way,” highlighting the underdog spirit of the team.
Controversial Moments
A scuffle occurred midway through the first half when Condon and Folgueiras collided over a loose ball, resulting in both players receiving technical fouls. Folgueiras clarified, “I didn’t throw a punch. It’s March Madness. Everybody wants to win.”