In a thrilling basketball showdown, Arizona's Caleb Love orchestrated an unforgettable comeback, culminating in a dramatic half-court shot to force overtime. The Wildcats capitalized on their momentum, outscoring the Cyclones to secure an 86-75 victory. Despite struggling with his shooting earlier, Love found his rhythm when it mattered most, contributing significantly to Arizona's historic win over the third-ranked team.

The Turning Point: A Half-Court Shot That Changed the Game

With just seconds left in regulation, it seemed like Iowa State had secured their win. However, Caleb Love’s improbable half-court heave tied the game, sending the crowd into a frenzy. This pivotal moment shifted the momentum entirely in favor of Arizona. Love’s desperation shot not only sent the game into overtime but also energized his teammates for the final stretch.

Love’s performance was nothing short of miraculous. Having struggled with his accuracy throughout the match, hitting just one of ten three-pointers leading up to the buzzer-beater, Love suddenly found his form. His successful long-range shots from beyond the arc were crucial in keeping Arizona competitive. The crowd erupted as the ball banked off the backboard and swished through the net, setting the stage for an exhilarating overtime period. This moment will undoubtedly be remembered by fans of both teams for years to come.

A Wild Overtime Finale Secures Victory

In overtime, Arizona maintained their newfound momentum, demonstrating remarkable composure under pressure. Caleb Love continued to shine, sinking two more three-pointers that sealed the deal. Carter Bryant added another three-pointer, solidifying Arizona’s dominance. Tobe Awaka contributed significantly with a double-double, scoring 17 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, further bolstering the Wildcats' efforts.

The Wildcats’ resilience was evident as they executed their plays flawlessly during the extra period. Iowa State, on the other hand, faltered, managing only one successful shot out of six attempts while committing three turnovers. The contrast in performance highlighted Arizona’s ability to rise to the occasion. This victory marked Arizona’s first triumph over a top-five opponent as an unranked team since their win against UCLA in 1979. The Wildcats showcased their depth and determination, proving that they can compete at the highest levels of college basketball.