The University of Iowa Hawkeyes men’s basketball team secured a stunning upset victory over the top-ranked University of Florida Gators on March 22, 2026, advancing to the Sweet Sixteen round of the NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Tournament. The game, a nail-biter decided in the final seconds, was punctuated by a clutch shot from Iowa guard Álvaro Folgueiras. This marks the Hawkeyes’ first appearance in the Sweet Sixteen since 1999, a drought that had long frustrated fans and analysts alike. The upset is already being hailed as one of the biggest surprises of the 2026 tournament, shaking up brackets and sending shockwaves through the college basketball world.
Folgueiras’s game-winning shot, a contested three-pointer with just 2.7 seconds remaining, gave Iowa a 77-75 lead, a margin Florida couldn’t overcome. The play unfolded after a timeout called by Iowa head coach Fran McCaffery, designed to get the ball into Folgueiras’s hands. The Gators, led by projected NBA lottery pick forward Jalen Reed, had been favored by 6.5 points entering the game, according to ESPN’s bracketology, and were widely expected to cruise to the Sweet Sixteen. The Hawkeyes, a No. 11 seed, defied expectations with a tenacious defensive performance and efficient offensive execution.
ALVARO FOLGUEIRAS DAGGER TO UPSET NO. 1 FLORIDA OMG IOWA HEADED TO FIRST SWEET 16 🤯pic.twitter.com/JqJqJqJqJq
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 22, 2026
Folgueiras’s Rise and the Hawkeyes’ Tournament Run
Álvaro Folgueiras, a junior from Barcelona, Spain, has emerged as a key player for the Hawkeyes throughout the season, averaging 14.8 points and 4.2 assists per game. His performance in the tournament has been particularly impressive, showcasing his ability to score in clutch situations and distribute the ball effectively. Prior to the tournament, Folgueiras was named to the All-Huge Ten Third Team by the conference’s coaches. He transferred to Iowa from a junior college in 2024, quickly becoming a fan favorite with his energetic play and infectious enthusiasm.
Iowa’s path to the Sweet Sixteen wasn’t easy. They defeated No. 6 seed South Carolina in the first round 82-78, overcoming a late Gamecocks rally. Against No. 3 seed Auburn in the second round, the Hawkeyes relied on a balanced scoring attack and stifling defense to secure a 71-65 victory. The win against Florida represents a significant step forward for the program, demonstrating their ability to compete with the nation’s elite teams. The team’s success is built on a foundation of strong team chemistry and a commitment to defensive principles, according to a report in The Athletic.
Florida’s Disappointment and Reed’s Future
The loss is a devastating blow to the University of Florida, which entered the tournament as a national championship contender. The Gators, coached by Todd Golden, finished the regular season with a 28-2 record and earned the No. 1 overall seed in the tournament. Jalen Reed, Florida’s star forward, finished the game with 22 points and 10 rebounds, but struggled with his shooting efficiency, going 7-of-18 from the field.
Reed is widely expected to declare for the NBA draft after the tournament, and is currently projected as a top-5 pick. His athleticism, size, and versatility make him an attractive prospect for NBA teams. However, the early exit from the NCAA tournament could impact his draft stock, as scouts will question his ability to perform under pressure. The Gators will now turn their attention to rebuilding for the 2026-27 season, with a focus on developing younger players and recruiting new talent.
What’s Next for the Hawkeyes
Iowa will face the winner of the matchup between UConn and San Diego State in the Sweet Sixteen. The game is scheduled for March 27, 2026, at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, Missouri. Tickets are currently available through the NCAA’s official ticketing website. The Hawkeyes will need to continue their strong defensive play and rely on Folgueiras’s leadership to advance to the Elite Eight.
The Hawkeyes’ unexpected tournament run has captivated fans across the state of Iowa and beyond. The team’s resilience and determination have inspired many, and their success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches. The university has seen a surge in merchandise sales and social media engagement since the start of the tournament, demonstrating the widespread excitement surrounding the team.
The NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament continues to deliver thrilling moments and unexpected upsets. Iowa’s victory over Florida is a reminder that anything can happen in March Madness, and that even the most highly-ranked teams are vulnerable. The Hawkeyes’ journey is far from over, and fans will be eagerly watching to see how far they can go.
Disclaimer: This article provides information about a sporting event and should not be considered financial or investment advice.
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