TAMPA, Fla. — Iowa’s Alvaro Folgueiras made a thrilling 3-pointer with just 4.5 seconds left, helping his team defeat defending champion Florida 73-72 in the NCAA Tournament. This stunning win marked the first time a No. 9 seed beat a No. 1 seed since 2018.
Under new coach Ben McCollum, the Hawkeyes will advance to the Sweet 16 for the first time in 24 years. “March is for dreamers,” Folgueiras said after the game. “We’re still hungry and ready to keep going.”
Iowa started strong, maintaining a 12-point lead in the second half. However, Florida fought back, taking a brief lead at 71-68. But Iowa wasn’t done. Bennett Stirtz hit a crucial floater to cut Florida’s lead to one, setting the stage for Folgueiras’s last-minute shot.
McCollum praised his team’s grit and teamwork. “They fight hard and show what Iowa basketball is all about,” he said. This spirit of unity was evident as Stirtz recognized that Folgueiras was open. “We’re unselfish,” Stirtz explained. “We want to see each other succeed.”
Florida struggled to get a good shot off in the end, with coach Todd Golden noting, “Credit Iowa for playing tougher.” This matchup was particularly significant as it reflected a shift in power dynamics; once-storied teams like Iowa are challenging dominant programs like Florida.
Fans experiences were mixed. Many were shocked by the upset, leaving the arena with questions. Iowa’s Folgueiras stated simply, “We’re the only ones who believed in us, and that’s fine.”
Statistically, this game showcased a breakdown of both teams’ performances. Iowa’s Tavion Banks led with 20 points, while Alex Condon from Florida scored 21. The game’s intensity peaked mid-way through the first half when both teams clashed over a loose ball, highlighting the competitive spirit of March Madness.
This victory resonates not just as a win but as a potential turning point for Iowa basketball. The spirit and resilience demonstrated reflect a broader trend of underdog teams making their mark in the tournament. As the NCAA Tournament progresses, fans are left wondering: who will be the next team to break expectations?
For more on NCAA March Madness, visit [AP March Madness bracket](https://apnews.com/hub/ncaa-mens-bracket) and [coverage](https://apnews.com/hub/march-madness).
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