Iowa is America’s team, favorite underdog to watch in March Madness
· Yahoo Sports
If there’s one thing college sports fans love, it’s the NCAA men’s basketball March Madness tournament. Each year, it delivers thrilling battles, moments of glory, and some of the most unforgettable scenes in sports.
But fans may love one thing even more: a true underdog surging into the tournament’s elite ranks. This goes beyond a single upset that busts brackets.
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It’s about a Cinderella story—one whose midnight may not strike until long after the clock should have run out. This year, Iowa has become America’s team to watch in the men’s NCAA tournament.
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The Hawkeyes entered the tournament as slight underdogs against Clemson. Since then, they have remained underdogs throughout March Madness.
Mar 26, 2026; Houston, TX, USA; The Iowa Hawkeyes mascot performs in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the South Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Iowa has risen to the challenge against some of the tournament’s toughest opponents. The Hawkeyes stunned the defending champions as 11.5-point underdogs.
They followed that performance by defeating Nebraska and sending their Big Ten rival home in the Sweet 16. Whether by six points or a single possession, Iowa has found ways to win in dramatic fashion.
The team effort has fueled this run. Iowa’s bench has delivered standout performances, at times nearly matching the starters’ scoring output.
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Senior Bennett Stirtz has led the charge, averaging 19.7 points per game this season. In what could be his final tournament appearance, he has consistently delivered when it matters most.
Mar 26, 2026; Houston, TX, USA;Iowa Hawkeyes guard Bennett Stirtz (14) reacts after beating the Nebraska Cornhuskers during a Sweet Sixteen game of the South Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn ImagesOn Saturday night, Iowa will face another Big Ten opponent in Illinois. Oddsmakers list the Hawkeyes as 6.5-point underdogs, with many expecting Illinois to end their run.
However, this is March Madness—where chaos reigns and anything can happen. In this tournament, every team stands just one point away from elimination.
Will Iowa continue its run as America’s Cinderella story? The answer will come soon.
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