Arizona Wildcats Defeat Baylor 87-80, Complete Texas Road Trip Sweep
The University of Arizona men’s basketball team secured a road victory over Baylor University , finishing their Texas trip with a record of 26-2 overall and 13-2 in Big 12 Conference play. The Wildcats defeated the Bears 87-80 at Foster Pavilion, despite playing without key contributors Koa Peat and Dwayne Aristode.
The win came with some pre-game uncertainty surrounding the availability of Anthony Dell’Orso, who suffered an ankle sprain during the previous game against the University of Houston. Dell’Orso ultimately played 31 minutes, contributing 8 points and two rebounds.
Bradley and Burries Lead Arizona’s Offensive Charge
Senior guard Jaden Bradley spearheaded Arizona’s offense with a game-high 25 points, shooting 8-for-17 from the field and adding six rebounds and six assists. Bradley’s performance was particularly strong from beyond the arc, where he connected on 5 of 8 three-point attempts, helping to stretch Baylor’s defense.
Freshman guard Brayden Burries also delivered a significant performance, scoring 24 points on 8-for-13 shooting, along with five rebounds and four assists. Burries proved crucial in the second half, hitting key shots, including a game-sealing three-pointer, and effectively drawing fouls, converting 7 of 11 free throw attempts.
Carr Shines for Baylor in Defeat
Sophomore Cameron Carr led the scoring for Baylor with 26 points, four rebounds, and three assists. He shot efficiently, going 11-for-19 from the field, and provided a consistent offensive threat throughout the game, keeping the Bears competitive.
A Tale of Two Halves at Foster Pavilion
The first half saw Baylor establish an early lead, beginning with a 9-4 run after Arizona initially took a 6-2 advantage. The Bears maintained control for the remainder of the first half, extending their lead to 41-34 by halftime. Carr was instrumental in Baylor’s first-half success, scoring 11 points and presenting a challenge for the Wildcats’ defense.
Arizona responded strongly at the start of the second half, opening with a 12-5 run to tie the game at 46. The ensuing 16 minutes were characterized by a back-and-forth battle, with neither team able to establish a lead exceeding two points. The game remained tightly contested until the final 30 seconds, when Burries’ jumper gave Arizona a four-point advantage, effectively sealing the victory.
Arizona demonstrated composure in the closing moments, relying on the strong performances of Bradley and Burries to overcome Baylor on their home court. The 87-80 win completed a successful Texas road trip and highlighted the team’s ability to perform under pressure.
Peat and Aristode Remain Sidelined
The Wildcats continued to navigate their schedule without freshman forward Koa Peat, who is sidelined with a leg muscle strain. He will be re-evaluated next week by the team’s medical staff, meaning he will miss at least the games against BYU and Houston. Reserve player Dwayne Aristode also remained out due to an illness, with his availability for the upcoming trip to Texas uncertain.
Looking Ahead: Kansas Awaits at McKale Center
Arizona will return to McKale Center at ALKEME Arena on , to face No. 14 University of Kansas at 2 p.m. This is one of only two remaining home games for the Wildcats this season. The team is encouraging fans to wear stripes to demonstrate their support.
The Wildcats’ ability to secure a win against Baylor despite the absence of key players underscores their depth and resilience. As they prepare to host Kansas, Arizona will look to maintain their momentum and solidify their position as a top contender in the Big 12 Conference.