The Arizona Wildcats’ quest for a title this year came to a sudden halt as they fell short in the Big 12 Championship game, their overall record now stands at 22-12.
UA Basketball vs. Houston in Championship
The Arizona Wildcats (22-12) and the Houston Cougars (25-9) brought a close and highly competitive match to the court, ultimately ending in a 72-64 win for Houston. The brunt of the game’s tension unfolded in the second half, when Houston’s surge saw them close the gap and eventually overtake the Wildcats, who had started strong in the first half. Arizona led by as many as five points but failed to maintain their momentum, allowing Houston to take the lead and secure the championship.
Phillips 66 Big 12 Men's Basketball Tournament 2026
The tournament, currently underway in Kansas City, has seen some heated competition.
The tournament officially kicked off on March 10 and is set to conclude on March 14 at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City. This marks the 26th time the city has hosted the event, which has been a staple for the Big 12 conference.
One of the tournament’s key highlights is the first Big 12 men's basketball regular season title victory by Arizona, who secured the top seed with an impressive 16-2 record.
“The key to winning this tournament lies in maintaining a strong defense and capitalizing on every offensive opportunity. Arizona’s recent performance shows they have the potential, but consistency is crucial.” - Tournament Analyst, ESPN
In an intense semifinal match, Arizona avenged an earlier loss to 6th-seeded Kansas (21-12) by shooting over 53 percent in both halves of the game. Despite Kansas’s 14 three-pointers, Arizona's performance was resilient, securing their place in the championship.
UA Basketball's Journey in the Big 12 Tournament
The journey to the championship was fraught with challenges, as Arizona navigated through tough opponents, including a hard-fought win over Kansas in the semifinals. The Wildcats had controlled much of the first half, leading by as many as five points and heading into the break with a 33-28 advantage.
The game was a nail-biter, with both teams showing exceptional skill and determination. The Wildcats’ resilient performance in the first half set the stage for a thrilling match, but Houston’s aggressive play and strategic moves ultimately tipped the scales in their favor.
For those looking to catch the action, the games are broadcast on various channels, with updates and live scores available through ESPN.
