LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Chris Allen led four Cyclones in double figures with 20 points, and Iowa State scored their final 14 at the free throw line Thursday night to beat Connecticut 77-64.

It’s the first time since UCLA in 1996 that the defending champs have lost in the opening game and only the second time the Huskies have lost their first game of the NCAA tournament. UConn coach Jim Calhoun was already on his feet before the final buzzer, walking to congratulate Iowa State head coach Fred Hoiberg.

Scott Christopherson tallied 15 and Melvin Ejim scored 11 for the Cyclones.  Royce White finished with a double-double of 15 points and 13 rebounds.

Iowa State will now play overall #1 seed Kentucky on Saturday in Louisville, KY.