[Editor’s note: Welcome to Athlon Sports’ poll of the day, where we ask readers to weigh in on the biggest topic of the day. Thanks for voting, and be sure to sound off in the comment section.]
After ninth-seeded Iowa upset Nebraska in the Sweet 16 Thursday night, the Hawkeyes are now the lowest seed still alive in the 2026 Men’s NCAA Tournament. Yes, they benefitted from Nebraska having just four players on the court at a crucial moment in the game, but the bottom line is that Iowa is in the Elite 8 for the first time in over 35 years.
After defeating Nebraska, Iowa gets to face another familiar Big Ten foe on Saturday, when they play No. 3 seed Illinois (TBS, 6:09 p.m. ET tipoff). Illinois advanced Thursday night by defeating No. 2 seed Houston.
It’s weird calling a major college program like Iowa a “Cinderella,” but that’s what the Hawkeyes are right now. So here’s our question for you…
And if you don’t think Iowa wins it all, tell us in the comments who you think will. Thanks for voting. Be sure to make your voice heard and sound off in the comments section.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 27, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Basketball section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
