NCAA Second Round: Iowa vs Florida Preview, Odds, Predictions (March 22)
- The Hawkeyes took down Clemson in the first round.
- The Gators historically blew out Prairie View A&M in the Round of 64.
- This marks the first all-time matchup between the two squads.
The night hours of the second round of the 2026 NCAA Tournament will be active on March 22 as the Iowa Hawkeyes take on the Florida Gators. The Gators shine as the solid favorite, presenting a contest that will confirm who advances to the Sweet 16.
How to Watch
- When: Sunday, March 22, 7:10 pm ET
- Where: Benchmark International Arena, Tampa, Florida
- How to Watch: TBS
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | -111 | +10 | O145.5 |
| Florida | -109 | -10 | U145.5 |
Game Preview
The Hawkeyes (22-12) make their way make their way to the second round of March Madness after dispatching Clemson in the Round of 64. Bennett Stirtz led Iowa with 16 points and five assists. Kael Combs added 15 points on 5-of-7 shooting and grabbed four rebounds. On another note, Alvaro Folgueiras also reached double figures with 14 points, four rebounds, and a perfect 7-of-7 performance from the free throw line.
The Gators (27-7) made easy work of Prairie View A&M, historically blowing them out in dominant fashion. Boogie Fland led the way with 16 points on a perfect 6-for-6 shooting from the floor to lead seven teammates into double figures. Rueben Chinyelu, with 14 points and 13 rebounds, set a team single-season record with his 19th double-double. Meanwhile, Thomas Haugh threw in 14 points, with Alex Condon right behind him with 13.
Iowa vs Florida Head-to-Head
This marks the first matchup between Iowa and Florida throughout their respective histories.
Iowa vs Florida Predictions
The winner of this game will take on Nebraska in the Sweet 16. Iowa has the squad to keep up with Florida, especially if Bennett Stirtz comes through with a huge performance. Florida will require a strong defensive performance while getting strong displays from Rueben Chinyelu and Alex Condon. Our betting pick here is for the Gators to defend a 10-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick:Â Florida Gators -10
