Virginia First Four Team Reaches Sweet Sixteen With Double Overtime Win Over Iowa

Virginia made history as the first team from the First Four to reach the Sweet Sixteen in women's NCAA Tournament history.

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The 10th-seeded Cavaliers defeated second-seeded Iowa 83-75 in a dramatic double overtime contest on March 23, 2026.

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The game was played in front of a sellout crowd of 14,332 at Iowa City.

Standout guard Kymora Johnson delivered a stellar performance with 28 points.

Virginia's victory marked their first advancement to the second weekend of the tournament since 2000.

Iowa finished their season with a 27-7 record after playing in front of their home crowd.

The Cavaliers' remarkable tournament journey began with an unlikely victory in the NCAA First Four, where they defeated Arizona State 57-55 in a low-scoring thriller.

Virginia's path to the Sweet Sixteen required them to win three games in just five days, demonstrating exceptional endurance and team chemistry.

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Following their First Four escape, they continued their run with an 82-73 overtime victory over Georgia in the first round.

This grueling schedule tested the team's depth and resilience, with players stepping up at crucial moments throughout the tournament.

The ability to perform under pressure and win close games became Virginia's trademark as they advanced through the bracket.

Virginia coach Amaka Agugua-Hamilton emphasized her team's mental fortitude and belief system as key factors in their historic run.

“What is a Cinderella Story in March Madness”

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In her fourth season leading the Cavaliers, the coach highlighted the team's resilience and composure under pressure.

Agugua-Hamilton spoke about the rebuilding process she initiated when taking over the program.

The coach mentioned rebuilding community engagement, securing resources, and establishing a positive team culture.

Agugua-Hamilton's leadership and the team's collective mindset were instrumental in their ability to overcome adversity.

This achievement marked a significant moment in Virginia basketball history.

Virginia's achievement represents not just a personal victory for the program but also continues a recent trend of lower-seeded teams making deep tournament runs.

The Cavaliers became the first 10-seed to reach the Sweet Sixteen since Creighton accomplished the feat in 2022.

Fredericksburg

The Bluejays also beat Iowa in the second round that year, creating an interesting parallel.

This milestone comes after a significant rebuilding period for the Virginia program.

The team's success demonstrates how proper development, recruitment, and culture building can transform a program.

Their Cinderella story has captured the attention of college basketball fans and established Virginia as a tournament contender.