Arizona has established dominance in the Big 12, securing both the regular-season title and the conference tournament crown. The Wildcats defeated Houston 79-74 in the Big 12 Tournament finale, avenging a loss to the same opponent in last year’s championship game.
Brayden Burries led Arizona in scoring with 21 points, overcoming a slow start. Koa Peat similarly delivered a strong performance, contributing 21 points and six rebounds in 27 minutes. Jaden Bradley scored all 13 of his points in the first half.
Arizona initially built a 15-point lead, but Houston mounted a significant comeback, closing the gap to one point with a 14-0 run. Though, the Wildcats ultimately prevailed. JoJo Tugler scored a team-high 20 points for Houston, but Arizona effectively limited the production of Kingston Flemings, Emanuel Sharp, and Milos Uzan to a combined 26 points on 30 shots.
Arizona enters the NCAA Tournament on a nine-game winning streak and is projected to be a No. 1 seed. Houston’s hopes for a No. 1 seed are likely diminished, though the Cougars are still expected to be a strong No. 2 seed.
By the numbers
Arizona
- First conference tournament title as a member of the Big 12 (2nd season)
- Third conference tournament title in five seasons under Head Coach Tommy Lloyd (won 2022 and 2023 Pac-12 Tournaments)
- Won nine-straight games
- Most wins (32) in a season entering the NCAA Tournament in school history
- Most wins (12) versus ranked teams in a season in school history
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Arizona win the Big 12 Tournament?
Arizona defeated Houston 79-74 in the championship game, avenging a loss from the previous year’s tournament.
Who led Arizona in scoring during the championship game?
Brayden Burries led Arizona with 21 points, while Koa Peat also contributed 21 points.
What is Arizona’s current winning streak?
Arizona has won nine games in a row.
With Arizona and Houston both poised for deep runs in March Madness, how will their respective performances in the tournament shape the national college basketball landscape?
