Arizona-Texas Tech Clash Highlights Big 12's Gauntlet

No. 1 Wildcats suffer second straight loss in tough Big 12 stretch

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The No. 1 Arizona Wildcats suffered back-to-back losses to Kansas and Texas Tech, highlighting the unrelenting nature of the Big 12 conference schedule. Despite the defeats, Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd remains confident in his team's ability to bounce back and compete for a national title.

Why it matters

The Big 12 is widely regarded as one of the toughest conferences in college basketball, and Arizona's struggles against Kansas and Texas Tech demonstrate the gauntlet that teams face in the league. This stretch of games could have major implications for Arizona's seeding and positioning in the NCAA Tournament.

The details

Arizona lost to Texas Tech 78-75 in overtime after leading late in regulation. The Red Raiders were led by strong performances from JT Toppin and Christian Anderson, while Arizona was without injured players Koa Peat and Dwayne Aristode. The Wildcats had a balanced scoring effort but were unable to secure the win in the end.

  • Arizona played Kansas earlier this week.
  • Arizona played Texas Tech on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

The players

Tommy Lloyd

The head coach of the Arizona Wildcats basketball team.

JT Toppin

A player for the Texas Tech Red Raiders who scored 31 points in the game against Arizona.

Christian Anderson

A player for the Texas Tech Red Raiders who scored 19 points in the game against Arizona.

Donovan Atwell

A player for the Texas Tech Red Raiders who hit a key 3-pointer in the final seconds of regulation to give Texas Tech the lead.

Brayden Burries

A player for the Arizona Wildcats who scored 16 points in the game against Texas Tech.

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What they’re saying

“I said going into this game, 'I feel like this will make us better no matter what, and I mean that.' And this will make Arizona better no matter what. And I don't think this last time we played them, honestly.”

— Grant McCasland, Texas Tech Head Coach

“JT Toppin was not going to be denied at the end of this game.”

— Grant McCasland, Texas Tech Head Coach

“I think you have to be honest with them, and they got to see the shortcomings, where they are, and you've got to address them and then we just got to get back to work.”

— Tommy Lloyd, Arizona Head Coach

“If you think you're going to go through a season unscathed, you've never done this before. So, you know, we need to keep our heads high. There's no shame in losing to Texas Tech today.”

— Tommy Lloyd, Arizona Head Coach

“I'm going to go see her, hang out with her and reset like a normal person. I love you guys. We're fine. And I can't wait to get this team back on the court and kick some ass.”

— Tommy Lloyd, Arizona Head Coach

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.