Underdog Virginia Stuns Iowa in Thrilling NCAA Women's Tournament

Kymora Johnson scored a career-high 28 points to lead 10th-seeded Virginia to a stunning 83-75 double-overtime victory over No. 2 Iowa in the women's NCAA Tournament second round. The Cavaliers (22-11) have now won three games in just five days, continuing their improbable postseason run.

The victory over the Hawkeyes (27-7), who were playing in front of a sellout home crowd of 14,332, came after Virginia previously defeated Arizona State 57-55 in Thursday's First Four game and then took down Georgia 82-73 in overtime on Saturday.

Despite being heavy underdogs, the Cavaliers refused to back down, matching Iowa's intensity and physicality throughout the tightly contested affair. Johnson, a sophomore guard, was the catalyst, making clutch shots and free throws to will her team to victory.

"This team has so much fight and grit," said Virginia head coach Tina Thompson. "We knew we had to bring that same energy and determination against a talented Iowa squad, and our players stepped up in a big way."

The game went into double overtime after the teams were knotted at 68-68 at the end of regulation. In the extra periods, Virginia made the crucial plays, capitalizing on Iowa's miscues to secure the upset.

"We've faced a lot of adversity this season, but our players have shown they can rise to the occasion," Thompson added. "This win is a testament to their hard work and belief in each other."

With the victory, Virginia advances to the Sweet Sixteen, where they will face TCU. The Cavaliers' improbable tournament run has captivated fans, and they now have their sights set on an even bigger upset in the next round.