In a dramatic showdown on Monday night, the Arizona Wildcats pulled off a remarkable upset against the No. 3 ranked Iowa State Cyclones with a final score of 86-75. The game was filled with intense moments and incredible plays that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
The turning point of the game came at the end of regulation when Caleb Love, who had struggled with his shooting throughout the night, hit a miraculous shot from beyond halfcourt to tie the game and force overtime. Love's heroics continued in the extra period as he drained two more crucial 3-pointers to secure the victory for Arizona.
Despite a valiant effort from Iowa State, led by Tamin Lipsey and Keshon Gilbert, the Cyclones were unable to recover from Love's game-tying shot. Lipsey's impressive performance, including a critical corner 3-pointer at the end of the first half, was not enough to overcome Arizona's resilience.
Arizona's Tobe Awaka also played a significant role in the Wildcats' triumph, contributing 17 points and 12 rebounds to help propel his team to victory. The Wildcats showcased their determination and grit, mounting a remarkable comeback after trailing early in the game.
One of the standout moments of the game was Love's buzzer-beating shot, a highlight-reel play that will be remembered by fans for years to come. Arizona's win over a top-5 opponent as an unranked team marked a historic achievement for the program, echoing their victory over No. 3 UCLA in 1979.
Looking ahead, Iowa State will aim to bounce back as they prepare to host Kansas State in their next game, while Arizona will face off against in-state rival Arizona State in what promises to be another thrilling matchup.
Overall, the clash between Arizona and Iowa State delivered a memorable night of college basketball, showcasing the excitement and unpredictability of the sport.
