There is “hot,” and then there is the 2025-26 Arizona Wildcats.
After an 87-74 dismantling of rival Arizona State in Tempe today, Tommy Lloyd’s squad didn’t just win a Territorial Cup matchup—they etched their names into the record books. Standing at a perfect 22-0, this team has officially secured the best start in the storied history of Arizona basketball, surpassing the 21-0 mark set over a decade ago.
But this isn’t just a team on a winning streak; this is a championship brand operating at the peak of its powers.
The New Standard of Excellence
The victory over the Sun Devils was a microcosm of why Arizona is the undisputed number one team in the nation. After a gritty first half that saw both teams tied at 38, the Wildcats did what elite teams do: they adjusted, they suffocated, and they dominated.
Arizona outscored ASU 49-36 in the second half, leaning on a relentless interior presence that produced 50 points in the paint and a massive +15 rebounding margin. This is a “complete team” in every sense of the word, ranking in the top 10 nationally in both offensive and defensive efficiency. They aren’t just outscoring people; they are breaking them down on both ends of the floor.
The Freshman Factor: Burries and Peat
At the heart of this historic run is arguably the best freshman duo in the country: Brayden Burries and Koa Peat.
• Koa Peat: A physical marvel who led the way today with 21 points. Peat is averaging nearly 15 points and 6 rebounds a game, playing with a veteran’s poise that belies his age.
• Brayden Burries: The California product is the team’s leading scorer at over 15 points per game. His ability to create his own shot and defend at a high level makes him the perfect engine for Lloyd’s fast-paced system.
Together, they provide a scoring punch and defensive versatility that makes Arizona nearly impossible to game-plan for. When you pair them with senior leadership from Jaden Bradley and the interior gravity of Motiejus Krivas, you have a roster built for Monday night in April.
By the Numbers: Dominance in the Big 12
The transition to the Big 12 was supposed to be a “gauntlet,” but Arizona has treated it like a victory tour.
• Offensive Firepower: Averaging nearly 90 points per game.
• Defensive Lockdown: Holding opponents to under 40% shooting from the field.
• Elite Distribution: Averaging 18 assists per game, proving this is a selfless unit that values the “extra pass.”
The Road to the Title: February Gauntlet
While 22-0 is a dream start, the Wildcats know the job isn’t finished. The month of February looms as the ultimate litmus test for their championship pedigree. The schedule features a “who’s who” of top-tier talent:
• February 9: A legendary road test at No. 14 Kansas.
• February 14: A high-stakes home clash against No. 11 Texas Tech.
• February 18: A rematch at McKale Center against No. 13 BYU.
• February 21: A brutal road trip to face No. 10 Houston.
If Arizona emerges from this stretch unscathed, we aren’t just talking about a Final Four contender—we’re talking about a team that could enter the NCAA Tournament as one of the most dominant forces in the modern era.
Final Thoughts
Tommy Lloyd has cultivated a culture where “Bear Down” isn’t just a slogan; it’s a defensive identity and an offensive whirlwind. With a mix of generational freshman talent, seasoned veterans, and a coach who won’t let them settle, the Arizona Wildcats have proven they are more than just a Top 25 mainstay. They are a championship brand ready to bring a second trophy back to Tucson.
