Iowa Basketball: Focus Shifts to Sweet 16 Showdown Against Nebraska After Stunning Win Over Florida
Hawkeyes Gear Up for Sweet 16 Showdown Against Nebraska After Stunning Upset
Updated March 25, 2026, 3:39 p.m. CT
HOUSTON — The Iowa Hawkeyes are riding high after their thrilling 73-72 victory over the Florida Gators, the defending national champions, in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. But head coach Ben McCollum is keeping his players grounded as they prepare for a crucial Sweet 16 matchup against the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Thursday, March 26.
During a recent film session, McCollum delivered a clear message: “You’ve got five minutes more to celebrate. Then, no more Florida talk.” He urged his team to avoid the distractions of social media and the hype surrounding their upset victory. “I don’t want you to drink the poison,” he cautioned.
The buzz surrounding the Hawkeyes has been palpable since their stunning win, which took place in what felt like a home game for Florida in Tampa. McCollum has made several national media appearances, including a spot on “The Pat McAfee Show,” to help manage the attention and focus on what lies ahead.
The stakes are high for Iowa, as a win against fourth-seeded Nebraska would secure their first Elite Eight appearance since 1987. “We understand that we’re not done,” said senior Brendan Hausen. “We believe we’re able to win a national championship, and that’s the goal.”
However, maintaining focus is no easy task for a group of 18- to 22-year-olds who have dedicated their lives to basketball. “A lot more people notice us walking on the streets, saying good job,” noted junior forward Cam Manyawu. Freshman Trey Thompson added, “People are getting a lot more followers on Instagram, but we’re trying to keep our head on straight.”
Alvaro Folgueiras, the hero of the Florida game with a last-second three-pointer, is experiencing newfound fame. “You’ve got to have short-term memory here,” he said. “You cannot be celebrating too much.”
The Hawkeyes have had a whirlwind 72 hours since their victory, returning to Iowa City briefly before heading to Houston for practice. “I can’t believe we’re at the Sweet 16!” Hausen exclaimed to teammate Isaia Howard upon their arrival.
As they prepare for Nebraska, both teams are dealing with their own pressures. Nebraska, fresh off its first NCAA Tournament win, is also riding a wave of excitement after a last-second victory over Vanderbilt. “If you get caught up in it and if you get satisfied, you’re not going to last very long in this tournament,” said Nebraska coach Fred Hoiberg.
For Iowa, the key to success will be managing the emotional rollercoaster of the tournament. McCollum emphasized the importance of being ready to play, stating, “If you’re not ready to play for the Sweet 16, then you probably shouldn’t be here.”
The matchup promises to be a tactical battle, with both teams having faced each other twice this season. Iowa won the first meeting, 57-52, while Nebraska claimed victory in the second, 84-75 in overtime. “Really, it’s just trying to find what little thing will win us the game,” Manyawu said.
As the Hawkeyes look to build on their momentum, they will need to address some key areas for improvement. Senior Tavion Banks, who scored 20 points against Florida, acknowledged his struggles at the free-throw line, while star point guard Bennett Stirtz aims to regain his shooting touch after a rough tournament start.
With the Sweet 16 on the horizon, the excitement is palpable for Iowa fans. “Imagine Iowa’s potential upside in Houston if Stirtz catches fire in the Sweet 16,” one analyst noted, hinting at the thrilling possibilities ahead.
As the clock ticks down to game day, the Hawkeyes are focused on one goal: advancing to the Elite Eight and making history. The NCAA Tournament machine marches forward, and for Iowa, the journey is just beginning.