Hawkeye fans already miss Payton Sandfort

Iowa fans express their love for Sandfort after his final appearance in the black and gold
Illinois v Iowa
Illinois v Iowa | Michael Hickey/GettyImages

Iowa Men's Basketball senior forward Payton Sandfort has represented the Hawkeyes for the last time. On Thursday night, Sandfort participated in the 2025State Farm Slam Dunk and 3-Point Championships.

Sandfort was eliminated after the first round of the three-point contest with a score of 15 points. Tyler McGhie from the University of California-San Diego was crowned champion after defeating Missouri's Caleb Grill in the final round.

Sandfort finished his Iowa career averaging 12.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. He is one of two Hawkeyes all-time with 1,500-plus career points, 500-plus career rebounds, and 250-plus career three-point baskets made.

Sandfort was a great Hawkeye, and he had a simple, but powerful message for the Iowa faithful.

After his final time representing the Hawkeyes, Sandfort thanked Iowa on social media. Fans noticed and shared their appreciation for the Hawkeye star.

Iowa fans reached out on X to share their love for Sandfort. Fans respected him for the incredible moments he had in a Hawkeyes uniform.

Sandfort was a great basketball player, but an even better person. He embodied the hard work and determination that all coaches preach.

Regardless of what the future holds for Payton, Hawkeye fans wish him the best.

Sandfort was the epitome of class. He was a great ambassador for the University of Iowa and exhibited class on and off the court.

Payton is the definition of what it means to be a Hawkeye. Even after receiving death threats for his poor stretch of play, Sandfort stayed the course and continued to work hard.

Once a Hawkeye, always a Hawkeye. Iowa fans appreciate hard work and dedication, and Sandfort displayed that over his career in Iowa City.

Payton Sandfort has played his last game in black and gold, but Hawkeye fans will never forget what he brought to the program. Thank you, Payton!

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