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Iowa Escapes Late Collapse, Beats USC in Final Seconds
Hawkeyes hold on for 73-72 victory after squandering big second-half lead
Jan. 29, 2026 at 2:31am
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In a thrilling finish, the Iowa Hawkeyes narrowly defeated the USC Trojans 73-72 on Wednesday in Iowa City. Iowa built a 17-point lead in the second half but nearly collapsed as USC's Kam Woods scored 19 straight points to pull the Trojans within one. However, Iowa's Bennett Stirtz hit two free throws with 4.6 seconds left to secure the victory for the Hawkeyes.
Why it matters
This game showcased the resilience of the Iowa Hawkeyes, who were able to hold on for the win despite nearly blowing a huge second-half lead. The close finish also highlighted the talent of USC's Kam Woods, who almost single-handedly brought the Trojans back into the game with his scoring outburst.
The details
Iowa shot 19-of-22 from the free throw line, including Stirtz's decisive free throws in the final seconds. The Hawkeyes also knocked down 7-of-14 3-pointers in the second half, with Stirtz and Tavion Banks each hitting a pair of triples. For USC, Woods scored a career-high 33 points but the Trojans' leading scorer, Chad Baker-Mazara, was held to 13 points on 5-of-15 shooting.
- The game was played on Wednesday, January 29, 2026 in Iowa City, Iowa.
- Iowa built a 17-point lead with 9:30 remaining in the second half.
- USC's Kam Woods scored 19 consecutive points to pull the Trojans within one possession.
- Bennett Stirtz hit the game-winning free throws with 4.6 seconds left on the clock.
The players
Bennett Stirtz
A key player for the Iowa Hawkeyes, Stirtz capped a 20-point performance by hitting the game-winning free throws in the final seconds.
Kam Woods
The standout player for USC, Woods scored a career-high 33 points and almost single-handedly brought the Trojans back into the game with his late scoring surge.
What they’re saying
“We must have had a mental lapse there for a few minutes, but the guys showed a lot of grit to hold on for the win.”
— Fran McCaffery, Iowa Head Coach
What’s next
Iowa will look to build on this close victory as they continue their Big Ten Conference schedule. USC will aim to regroup and get back on track after the tough loss.
The takeaway
This game demonstrated the unpredictable nature of college basketball, with Iowa nearly squandering a big lead before finding a way to hold on for the win. Both teams showcased their talent, with Stirtz and Woods delivering standout individual performances.
