Caleb Love's Buzzer-Beater Sends Game to Overtime as Arizona Shocks No. 3 Iowa State 86-75!

Caleb Love’s half-court heave forced overtime, leading to an upset for Arizona over No. 3 Iowa State with a final score of 86-75. The Cyclones (17-3, 7-2 Big 12) seemed to have the game in hand when Joshua Jefferson made one of two free throws with just 2.2 seconds left, but that left too much time on the clock for the Wildcats.

Despite struggling with his shooting, Love, who was 1 for 10 on three-pointers, dribbled a few steps and launched a remarkable bank shot from beyond the midcourt logo, igniting a frenzy in McKale Center.

In overtime, Love found his rhythm, sinking two crucial corner three-pointers, while Carter Bryant added another, marking Arizona’s first victory over a top-5 opponent as an unranked team since they defeated No. 3 UCLA back in 1979.

Tobe Awaka contributed significantly for the Wildcats (14-6, 8-1) with a double-double, finishing with 17 points and 12 rebounds.

For Iowa State, Tamin Lipsey led the scoring with 18 points, while Keshon Gilbert added 17, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win.

Iowa State held a seven-point lead in the first half, but Arizona responded with a stunning 16-0 run, taking control of the game and leading 34-25.

Lipsey, who netted 14 points in the first half, brought the Cyclones within four at halftime with a timely corner three-pointer, making it 34-30.

Takeaways

Iowa State: The Cyclones have shown a talent for winning close games, but they faltered in the crucial moments following Love’s dramatic shot.

Arizona: Caleb Love thrives in high-pressure situations, showcasing his ability to deliver when it matters most, even on a night of poor shooting.

Key moment

Love’s astonishing buzzer-beater is a moment that will be etched in the memories of Arizona fans, and perhaps even Iowa State supporters, for years to come.