Arizona Wildcats Remain Atop AP Poll for Ninth Straight Week

The Wildcats continue their historic start to the season with a perfect 23-0 record.

Feb. 9, 2026 at 2:23pm

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The Arizona Wildcats have remained the top-ranked team in the latest AP Poll, receiving all 59 first-place votes. This marks the ninth consecutive week the Wildcats have held the top spot, setting a program record for the longest winning streak and best start to a season. Led by a mix of veteran leadership and standout freshmen, Arizona has racked up an impressive resume with 8 Quad 1 wins and victories over 6 ranked opponents so far this season.

Why it matters

Arizona's dominant start has them firmly in contention for a No. 1 seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament. Their ability to blend experienced players with talented newcomers has been a key factor in their success, which could serve them well as they enter a challenging final stretch of their Big 12 schedule.

The details

After a 84-47 blowout win over Oklahoma State, there was little doubt the Wildcats would remain atop the latest AP Poll. Arizona's 23-0 record is the best start to a season in Big 12 history, just two years after leaving the Pac-12. The Wildcats have been led by a mix of veteran leadership from players like Jaden Bradley and Tobe Awaka, as well as standout freshmen Brayden Burries, Koa Peat, and Ivan Kharchenkov.

  • Arizona has been ranked No. 1 for the past 9 consecutive weeks.
  • The Wildcats are 23-0 on the season, setting a program record for best start.
  • Arizona will face 6 ranked Big 12 opponents in their final 8 regular season games.

The players

Jaden Bradley

A veteran leader for the Wildcats who has provided experience to guide the talented freshmen.

Tobe Awaka

Another experienced player who has helped mentor the young stars on the Arizona roster.

Brayden Burries

One of the standout freshmen who has made an immediate impact for the Wildcats.

Koa Peat

Another highly touted freshman who has been a key contributor to Arizona's success.

Ivan Kharchenkov

The third member of Arizona's talented freshman trio that has helped power the team's undefeated start.

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What’s next

The Wildcats will face a gauntlet of ranked Big 12 opponents in 6 of their final 8 regular season games, which will provide a true test of their championship mettle.

The takeaway

Arizona's blend of veteran leadership and standout freshmen talent has propelled them to an historic start, but the true measure of their greatness will come in the challenging final stretch of their Big 12 schedule as they look to solidify their case for a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament.