How Rueben Chinyelu and Florida basketball's frontcourt was shut down by Iowa
Florida basketball's dominant frontcourt, including Rueben Chinyelu, had no answers in an uncharacteristic outing vs. Iowa.
TAMPA – Rueben Chinyelu wore his emotions on his sleeve after Florida basketball’s exit in March Madness on Sunday, March 22. It was understandable given that Chinyelu’s performance in the 73-72 loss to Iowa was a result of the Hawkeyes being one of the few teams that could match the Gators frontcourt’s physicality inside the paint. Chinyelu, who had averaged a double-double this season, was held scoreless and recorded only one rebound in 19 minutes on the floor.
“We weren’t the better team tonight,” Chinyelu said. “I just feel so bad. Letting everyone down, letting my teammates down.
“Just having them around through my ups and downs. My coaches, the managers, my teammates... I would never trade for anything.
I just wish that we kept going. I’m just so mad that I wasn’t able to help my teammates tonight. ” The emotions got the best of the Gators’ beloved big man, who had to be consoled by a staff member midway through his interview with the media.