A standout athlete from the University of Iowa is set to take center stage at a prestigious national competition. Payton Sandfort, a senior from the Hawkeyes basketball team, has been selected to compete in the State Farm College Dunk and 3-Point Championships during the Final Four event in San Antonio on April 3. This marks a significant achievement for Sandfort, as he joins an elite group of past participants from Iowa, including notable names like Dean Oliver, Luke Recker, and Jordan Bohannon. His invitation highlights his exceptional skills and contributions to the program over his four-year collegiate career.

Sandfort's journey to this championship reflects years of dedication and remarkable performance on the court. As one of only two players in the history of the University of Iowa to accumulate over 1,500 points, 500 rebounds, and 250 three-point field goals, his impact cannot be overstated. Throughout his college tenure, Sandfort amassed an impressive total of 1,619 points, placing him among the top scorers in the university's history. His precision from beyond the arc is evident with 271 successful three-point shots, ranking second all-time within the program. Additionally, his free-throw accuracy stands unmatched at an extraordinary 89.6%.

Historically, the State Farm College Dunk and 3-Point Championships have seen previous successes from Iowa athletes. Notably, Peter Jok triumphed in 2017, while Jordan Bohannon claimed victory in 2022. With such a legacy behind him, Sandfort carries both pressure and motivation into the competition. Hailing from Waukee, his participation represents not just personal achievement but also pride for his home state and university.

As Sandfort prepares to showcase his talents on a national platform, fans eagerly anticipate his performance. His inclusion in this championship underscores his status as one of the most accomplished players in recent Hawkeye history. With a proven track record of excellence, Sandfort aims to leave a lasting impression in San Antonio and potentially etch his name alongside other legendary winners of the event.