College basketball scores, winners and losers: Duke, Arizona get big wins as No. 1 seed race ramps up
CBS Sports
by
David Cobb
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
College basketball fans were treated to a day of dramatic upsets and standout performances as top teams vied for supremacy in the race for No. 1 seeds in the NCAA Tournament. Michigan, once considered the prohibitive favorite after being named the No. 1 overall seed in the bracket preview, fell short in a thrilling 68-63 loss to Duke. Meanwhile, Arizona solidified its position as a contender with a convincing 73-66 victory over No. 2 Houston, despite playing without star forward Koa Peat. These results have intensified the competition for the top spot and showcased the depth of talent across the nation's best teams.
The day's action also featured other notable wins and losses. UCLA pulled off an incredible comeback against Illinois, with Donovan Dent delivering a game-winning layup in overtime to secure a 95-94 victory. This was Illinois' third overtime loss in Big Ten play, highlighting the unpredictable nature of this season. Meanwhile, Kansas suffered its largest home loss under Bill Self when it fell to Cincinnati, marking a significant stumble for the Jayhawks in their quest for a top seed.
Elsewhere, Arizona's win over Houston was a pivotal moment in the Big 12 conference race, as the Wildcats took control with just four games remaining. Cam Boozer led Duke to its upset of Michigan, showcasing his versatility and clutch performance despite playing with fouls late in the game. These results underscore the high stakes of the final stretch of the regular season and the unpredictable nature of college basketball.
The intense competition for No. 1 seeds has made this season one of the most compelling in recent memory. With just a few weeks left before the NCAA Tournament, every game carries significant weight, as teams fight to establish their place among the elite. The standout performances and upsets from Saturday's action remind fans that anything can happen in college basketball, making every moment worth watching.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/22/2026