Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Syracuse Tops Iowa State, Advances to Face UConn

3/23/2026

23 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Syracuse Advances Victorious

Syracuse defeated Iowa State 72-63 in the NCAA Tournament, advancing to face UConn.
Olivia Schmitt of Syracuse scored a career-high 15 points, including five second-quarter threes.
Uche Izoje of Syracuse scored 23 points early.
Iowa State All-American Audi Crooks scored 37 points, but the rest of the Cyclones totaled 26.
Iowa State finished shooting 39%, ending their season as Syracuse moves on to face the undefeated UConn Huskies.

Summary

UConn Seeks Sweet 16

UConn, the No. 1 seed, will face Syracuse in the NCAA Tournament second round on Monday at 6 p.m. at Gampel Pavilion.
UConn aims for its 32nd consecutive Sweet 16, led by All-Big East guard KK Arnold and freshman Ashlynn Shade.
Syracuse features freshman Uche Izoje and Olivia Schmitt after their first-round upset of Iowa State.
Geno Auriemma, UConn head coach, acknowledged Syracuse's physicality and teamwork as a challenge.

History

Historical Context

The 1985 NCAA Tournament marked a pivotal expansion to 64 teams, enhancing competition and viewership. This year also saw Villanova's stunning upset over Georgetown, winning 66-64 in the championship game, a feat celebrated for its high shooting percentage. The tournament's growing popularity, highlighted by a 30% ratings increase, solidified March Madness as a cornerstone of American sports culture.

1 of 3

Syracuse Advances Victorious

Syracuse defeated Iowa State 72-63 in the NCAA Tournament, advancing to face UConn.
Olivia Schmitt of Syracuse scored a career-high 15 points, including five second-quarter threes.
Uche Izoje of Syracuse scored 23 points early.
Iowa State All-American Audi Crooks scored 37 points, but the rest of the Cyclones totaled 26.
Iowa State finished shooting 39%, ending their season as Syracuse moves on to face the undefeated UConn Huskies.

1 / 3