Top-Ranked Arizona Basketball Takes on No. 13 BYU: Key Matchup Highlights
Arizona basketball is enjoying an impressive season, boasting the second-best start in its history. The Wildcats have achieved a perfect 20-0 record, winning games by an average margin of 22.2 points. The path has included difficult matchups, facing five ranked opponents, including the defending national champion Florida Gators and UConn, who are currently ranked No. 2 in the AP poll.
Upcoming Challenge Against No. 13 BYU
However, the competition has softened recently. Since starting Big 12 play on January 3, Arizona has defeated seven conference opponents, whose combined record stands at 17-32. None of these teams have managed a winning record in the Big 12. Guard Brayden Burries emphasized the team’s focus, stating, “We haven’t accomplished what we want to accomplish yet.”
On Monday night, Arizona will face its most formidable opponent in weeks — No. 13 BYU. This game marks the start of a challenging end to the regular season, featuring six ranked teams in its final seven games. Coach Tommy Lloyd highlighted the expectations ahead, stating, “We’re protecting nothing because we’ve done nothing.”
Key Players to Watch
BYU’s success largely hinges on freshman forward AJ Dybantsa, a highly touted 6-foot-9 talent. He recently set a school record with 43 points against Utah and averages impressive totals of 23.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. Coach Lloyd noted Dybantsa’s unique ability to elevate his teammates while still being a dominant force on the court.
- AJ Dybantsa: Projected No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
- Richie Saunders: Senior guard averaging 18.8 points per game.
- Robert Wright: Sophomore guard scoring 18.0 points per game.
This trio is responsible for 77% of BYU’s scoring during Big 12 play, averaging 66 points together. In their only conference loss against Texas Tech, the three players scored 59 of the team’s 71 points.
Battle for Rebounds
Rebounding could play a crucial role in this matchup. Arizona has excelled in preventing offensive rebounds, allowing opponents to grab just over 25% of their missed shots. In contrast, BYU leads the league in offensive rebounding, securing nearly 40% of available boards.
- Keba Keita: BYU’s center averaging 5.1 offensive rebounds per 40 minutes.
- Tobe Awaka: Leads NCAA in offensive rebounding at 23.4%.
Arizona’s Burries contributes significantly, averaging 6.6 rebounds in conference play, benefiting the team’s transition offense.
Free Throws and Game Atmosphere
Both teams rank high in free throw attempts. Arizona leads the Big 12, while BYU sits in third. BYU’s Dybantsa is particularly adept at drawing fouls, ranking 18th in the country for fouls drawn per 40 minutes. He consistently looks to the free-throw line, having attempted at least seven free throws in 14 games.
The game’s setting, the Marriott Center in Provo, adds another layer of difficulty. It accommodates nearly 18,000 fans, making it the 13th-largest Division I venue. BYU has a formidable home record, winning their last 13 games at home. Coach Awaka recalled the challenging atmosphere from last year’s game, where his team emerged victorious.
Looking Ahead
Arizona’s chances of maintaining their undefeated record are slimmer against BYU, projected at 60%, which is among the lowest for their upcoming games. Coach Lloyd noted the importance of remaining composed and aggressive, urging the team to embrace challenges without fear of defeat. “We’re going to meet a lot of tough moments; we need to stay steady and be poised,” he stated.
The matchup promises to be a pivotal moment in Arizona’s season as they take on the challenge presented by the Cougars. The results could redefine their trajectory as they head deeper into the season.
