Iowa Upsets Defending Champs Florida to Reach Sweet 16

Hawkeyes punch ticket to first Sweet 16 appearance since 1999 with thrilling victory over Gators

Mar. 23, 2026 at 2:07am

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The Iowa Hawkeyes pulled off a stunning upset of the No. 1-seeded Florida Gators, the defending national champions, with a 73-72 victory in Tampa, Florida. Iowa dominated the game from start to finish, shooting 51% to Florida's 50% and outscoring the Gators 32-30 in the paint despite being the smaller team. Clutch performances from Cooper Koch, Tavion Banks, and Alvaro Folgueiras, whose last-second three-pointer sealed the win, propelled Iowa to the Sweet 16 for the first time since 1999.

Why it matters

This victory is a major accomplishment for the Iowa program, which has not reached the Sweet 16 in over two decades. The Hawkeyes proved they can compete with and defeat one of the top teams in the country, setting up an enticing matchup with in-state rival Nebraska in the next round.

The details

Iowa shot the ball efficiently, making 7 three-pointers compared to Florida's 6, and holding their own on the boards despite being outsized. Tavion Banks led the way with 20 points on 7-10 shooting, while Cooper Koch hit 4 clutch three-pointers in the second half to keep Iowa in front. Alvaro Folgueiras' game-winning three as time expired capped off the upset victory.

  • The game took place on March 23, 2026 in Tampa, Florida.
  • This was Iowa's first Sweet 16 appearance since 1999.

The players

Tavion Banks

A key contributor for Iowa, leading the team with 20 points and 6 rebounds, including 4 offensive boards.

Cooper Koch

Knocked down 4 three-pointers in the second half to help Iowa hold off Florida's late comeback attempt.

Alvaro Folgueiras

Hit the game-winning three-pointer at the buzzer to send Iowa to the Sweet 16 for the first time in over 20 years.

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What they’re saying

“We were never afraid or intimidated. From the jump, we took it right to the Gators and played our game.”

— Ben McCollum, Iowa Head Coach

“Alvaro's shot is going to go down as one of the greatest moments in Iowa basketball history. I'm so proud of this team and how they fought to the very end.”

— Tavion Banks, Iowa Forward

What’s next

Iowa will face in-state rival Nebraska in the Sweet 16, with a spot in the Elite 8 on the line. The two teams have split their previous two matchups this season, setting up an enthralling rubber match with a trip to the regional finals at stake.

The takeaway

Iowa's stunning upset of the defending national champions Florida proves the Hawkeyes are a force to be reckoned with in this year's NCAA Tournament. Their grit, determination, and clutch shot-making have earned them a spot in the Sweet 16 for the first time in over 20 years, and they now have a chance to make even more history against their bitter rival Nebraska.