Monday, Jan. 26 | 9:00 PM ET | ESPN
Location: Marriott Center (Provo, UT)
Arizona heads to Provo for one of the most anticipated games of the season, entering undefeated and ranked No. 1 at 20–0 overall and 7–0 in Big 12 play. BYU, No. 13 at 17–2 (5–1 Big 12), counters with one of the nation’s toughest home environments — and the most dynamic player in college basketball in AJ Dybantsa. This is the ultimate contrast: the country’s most complete team versus a singular star capable of bending the game around his will.
Betting Lines
- Spread: Arizona -1.5
- Total: 165.5
The tight spread reflects BYU’s home-court advantage and Dybantsa’s star power, while the lofty total signals a fast-paced, high-scoring affair.
Resume Check
Arizona (20–0, 7–0 Big 12)
Arizona has been flawless, combining elite efficiency with depth and physicality. Averaging 86.8 points per game on 49.1% shooting, the Wildcats overwhelm opponents with ball movement, defend without fouling, and close games with poise — even on the road.
BYU (17–2, 5–1 Big 12)
BYU’s résumé is built on offensive firepower and home dominance. They thrive in space, push tempo, and become especially dangerous when games turn into shootouts, with Dybantsa at the center of everything they do.
Players to Watch
Arizona
- Koa Peat (F) — 14.7 PPG: Physical scorer who thrives through contact and anchors Arizona’s balance.
- Jaden Bradley (G) — 4.5 APG, 1.9 SPG: Defensive engine and tempo-setter.
- Motiejus Krivas (C) — 1.8 BPG: Rim protector who controls the paint.
BYU
- AJ Dybantsa (F) — 23.6 PPG, 6.8 RPG: The centerpiece of the matchup, capable of taking over games in isolation, transition, and late-clock situations.
- Richie Saunders (G) — 18.8 PPG: Secondary scorer who punishes defensive attention drawn by Dybantsa.
- Robert Wright III (G) — 5.2 APG: Primary playmaker tasked with keeping BYU organized.
How Arizona Wins
- Throw multiple defenders at Dybantsa and force others to beat them
- Control the glass and limit transition opportunities
- Let depth and execution decide the game late
How BYU Wins
- Let Dybantsa dictate the offense and control tempo
- Knock down threes to stretch Arizona’s defense
- Feed off the Marriott Center and turn the game into a shootout
Prediction
This is a marquee Big 12 showdown — the No. 1 team in the country against the most electric player in college basketball, in one of the sport’s toughest venues. With BYU surging, the Marriott Center at full volume, and AJ Dybantsa delivering a signature performance, the Cougars pull off a statement win and hand Arizona its first loss of the season.
Final Score: BYU 87, Arizona 84
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