Iowa Basketball Upsets No. 21 Wisconsin in Overtime Thriller

Iowa secured a thrilling victory over No. 21 Wisconsin in a dramatic overtime finish, with Tony Perkins sealing the win with a last-second layup after missing a potential game-winner in regulation.

Entering the game, Iowa’s NCAA Tournament hopes were hanging by a thread, having missed out on key wins against powerhouse teams such as Purdue, Iowa State, and Wisconsin in previous matchups this season.

The Hawkeyes, led by a balanced scoring effort, saw eight players contribute points, with standout performances from Perkins, Payton Sandfort, Owen Freeman, and Josh Dix who showcased their skills throughout the game.

Owen Freeman, a strong contender for the Big Ten Freshman of the Year, delivered a stellar performance with 20 points, 12 rebounds, six assists, four blocks, and two steals, highlighting his impact on the court.

Iowa’s defensive adjustments in the second half proved crucial as they limited Wisconsin’s scoring efficiency, allowing them to claw back from a double-digit deficit and eventually take control of the game.

Despite a late surge from Wisconsin to force overtime, Iowa remained resilient and capitalized on Perkins’ clutch play to secure a vital win as they head into a tough stretch to close out the regular season.

The Hawkeyes face challenging matchups against Michigan State, Illinois, Penn State, and Northwestern in their final five games, underscoring the need for continued determination and strong performances to bolster their postseason prospects.