Mandy
Entering the night, Arizona Wildcats owned a 23–1 overall record and carried the second-longest winning streak in Division I men’s basketball. They appeared in control early, taking a three-point halftime lead and stretching the margin to 11 points in the second half.
But Kansas Jayhawks responded with composure and physicality, finally grabbing their first lead with 9:32 remaining and never letting go.
Kansas improved to 19–5 overall and 9–2 in Big 12 play with the victory.
Key Absence and Turning Point
Kansas played without freshman guard Darryn Peterson, who was ruled out shortly before tipoff due to flu-like symptoms. The absence marked his 11th missed game this season, following earlier hamstring, calf, and ankle injuries.
Despite the setback, the Jayhawks leaned on their frontcourt strength and free-throw execution down the stretch.
Flory Bidunga Dominates the Paint
The game’s momentum swung when Flory Bidunga took over. The sophomore powered Kansas ahead with a layup that capped a personal seven-point run, igniting the home crowd.
Bidunga finished with a dominant double-double, scoring 23 points on 8-for-11 shooting while pulling down 10 rebounds, proving decisive in the closing minutes.
Late Free Throws Seal the Win
Arizona cut the deficit to one point with 34 seconds remaining, but Kansas showed poise at the line. Senior guard Melvin Council Jr. hit three of four free throws in the final minute and an impressive 10 of 11 overall, ending the night with 23 points.
Tre White also chipped in with two crucial free throws late, ensuring the Jayhawks closed out the upset.
Balanced Scoring Lifts Kansas
Kansas showcased depth, placing four players in double figures:
- Bryson Tiller: 18 points
- Jamari McDowell: 10 points
- Bidunga and Council Jr.: 23 points each
Arizona’s Standout Performers
Despite the loss, Arizona received strong performances from its young core:
- Brayden Burries led all scorers with 25 points
- Motiejus Krivas added 14 points
- Ivan Kharchenkov contributed 13 points
The defeat snapped Arizona’s unbeaten run and dropped them to 23–1 overall, 10–1 in conference play.
What’s Next
- Kansas travels to face Iowa State Cyclones on Saturday.
- Arizona returns home to host Texas Tech Red Raiders on Saturday.
Kansas delivered one of its most impressive performances of the season, overcoming injuries and a double-digit deficit to topple the nation’s top-ranked team.
Behind Flory Bidunga’s double-double and Melvin Council Jr.’s clutch free throws, the Jayhawks protected their home court and reshaped the Big 12 race.
For Arizona, the loss serves as a reminder of how unforgiving road environments like Allen Fieldhouse can be, especially against a deep and disciplined opponent like Kansas.