Top-ranked Arizona Wildcats just reminded everyone why they're unbeaten, exploding for 57 second-half points to dismantle No. 12 Alabama 96-75 in a high-stakes showdown at Legacy Arena. The Crimson Tide hung tough at halftime, but Arizona's relentless rebounding and balanced attack turned it into a rout, extending the Wildcats' win streak to 9-0.
This wasn't just any win—it was a statement. Arizona, fresh off proving their elite status, exposed Alabama's season-long rebounding woes while showcasing depth that left Bama scrambling.
Second Half Turned the Tide—Literally
Alabama came in healthy for the first time all season, with a full roster ready to challenge the nation's top team. They even grabbed a halftime edge, riding momentum from guards like
Labaron Philon.
But Arizona flipped the script. The Wildcats outscored Bama 57-34 after the break, dominating the boards 52-32 overall. Rebounding became Alabama's nightmare, as Arizona crashed the glass with fury and converted second-chance points into daggers.
The lead seesawed early—Krivas and Kharchenkov traded blows with Alabama's shooters, including a Philon 3-pointer that gave Bama a brief 24-22 edge. Burries and crew responded, building separation that Alabama couldn't close.
Standout Stars Light Up the Scoreboard
Arizona's balance was brutal: five players in double figures, proving they're built for March.
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Brayden Burries erupted, leading the charge in Arizona's unbeaten run with explosive scoring.
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Jaden Bradley (14 pts), ex-Crimson Tide, added poetic revenge.
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Anthony Dell'Orso (13 pts),
Ivan Kharchenkov (10 pts), and
Motiejus Krivas fueled the fire.
Alabama leaned on
Labaron Philon (24 pts, 10 rebs) and
Latrell Wrightsell Jr. (21 pts), but no one else cracked double digits. Philon was everywhere, but it wasn't enough against Arizona's swarm.
What Went Wrong for Bama—and Why It Matters
Despite health, Alabama lacked answers. Their Achilles heel—rebounding—doomed them, especially as Arizona feasted in the paint and on the perimeter.
This loss bruises a Tide team eyeing SEC glory, highlighting depth issues against top talent. For Arizona, it's validation: undefeated, elite, and peaking at the perfect time in this Big 12-SEC clash.
Looking Ahead: Playoff Implications?
Arizona's 9-0 streak screams contender status—watch for them in holiday tournaments. Alabama rebounds (pun intended) with a healthy roster, but fixing the glass is priority one.
Fans, this game's a blueprint: depth wins championships. Catch the highlights if you missed the fireworks.
Sources
1. #1 Arizona overpowers #12 Alabama 96-75
2. No. 1 Arizona men’s basketball secure thrilling 21-point win over No. 12 Alabama
3. Alabama basketball had all the bodies vs Arizona, but not the answers
4. Brayden Burries goes off in top-ranked Arizona’s win over No. 12 Alabama to remain unbeaten
