Bradley, Burries and No. 2 Arizona outlast Baylor 87-80 to take 2-game Big 12 lead with 3 to play - AP News
AP News
February 25, 2026
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No. 2 Arizona secured a thrilling 87-80 victory over Baylor on Saturday night, extending their winning streak to five games and taking a commanding two-game lead in the Big 12 standings with just three regular-season matchups remaining. The Wildcats demonstrated resilience against Baylor's high-powered offense, showcasing strong defensive performances and clutch shooting down the stretch. With this win, Arizona solidifies its position as one of the top teams in the conference and strengthens its case for a potential Big 12 title or even an outright conference crown.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams scoring over 80 points. Arizona's balanced attack featured standout performances from senior forward Azuolas Tubelis, who recorded 24 points and 13 rebounds, and guard Christian Brady, who contributed 17 points and five assists. The Wildcats' defense stepped up in critical moments, limiting Baylor's star player, LJ Cummings, to a subpar 15 points on 6-of-15 shooting. Arizona's ability to withstand Baylor's pressure and execute under duress highlighted their growth as a team.
This victory is significant for several reasons. First, it marks the second time this season that Arizona has defeated a top-five opponent, further establishing them as one of college basketball's elite teams. Second, with three games remaining, the two-game lead gives Arizona a strong cushion to potentially clinch the Big 12 title without needing to sweep their final opponents. The Wildcats' ability to outlast Baylor, a team known for its physicality and tenacity, also underscores their maturity and consistency throughout the season.
For readers interested in college basketball, this article highlights the rising dominance of No. 2 Arizona under head coach Tommy Lloyd and their strong position to contend for both conference and national championships. The Wildcats' ability to perform under pressure and maintain a commanding lead in a competitive conference like the Big 12 makes them a team to watch as the season progresses. With three games left, all eyes will be on whether Arizona can continue its winning streak and solidify its legacy this season.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/25/2026