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Arizona Vs UCF 🏀 Game Preview/Discussion Thread 1/17/26 at 2pm ESPN

The No. 1 Arizona Wildcats (17-0, 4-0 Big 12) head into Saturday's matchup against the UCF Knights (14-2, 3-1 Big 12) riding one of the most dominant starts in recent college basketball history. Arizona's undefeated record through 17 games is the program's best start in over a decade, and the Wildcats are currently ranked No. 1 in major polls after recent wins over top competition like Arizona State. The Wildcats boast an efficient offense, averaging around 91.0 points per game on 52.0 % shooting, while holding opponents to about 68.8 points on 40.0 % shooting — a clear statistical edge heading into this contest.

Arizona's balance and depth have been on display all season, with key contributors like Tobe Awaka, Koa Peat, and Brayden Burries combining for consistent scoring and rebounding. The Wildcats are fourth nationally in defensive rebounds per game (~28.2) and also shoot at a blistering clip compared to what UCF's defense typically allows. Meanwhile, UCF enters the game as a strong offensive team in its own right — shooting nearly 49 % from the floor and excelling on the boards — but they'll face a much tougher challenge than most of their opponents to date. Arizona's offensive firepower and defensive discipline are expected to dictate the pace and likely maintain the Wildcats' march toward a perfect regular season.

Although UCF is a formidable squad with balance — including playmaking from Themus Fulks and rebounding strength from Jamichael Stillwell — the Knights' statistics still lag slightly behind Arizona's elite numbers. UCF has gone 10-1 at home this season, but Arizona's road prowess and unbeaten streak make it a formidable opponent in Orlando. If the Wildcats can continue their efficient shooting and will to control the glass, they're poised to leave with a road win and keep their national title aspirations alive heading deeper into Big 12 play.

Let's talk about the Wildcats Vs Knights! 

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All but one UCF player is in their first year at the school.  They have 11 players that play 7 or more minutes a game, 2 soph, 5 jrs and 4 srs. They start 4 Srs and 1 Jr. Devin Cambridge is in his 7th yr. This is an experienced team and Johhny Dawkins is an experienced coach doing a good job with them.  With the Cats traveling clear across the country, this game could present some challenges.  Fortunately, we are simply bigger, stronger and more talented.  Hopefully our guys don't let their guard down.

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As FL mentioned, this was a solid opponent. The Cats took a nice road win and everybody contributed in different ways. Props to the Arizona fans that made the trip!