No. 16 Texas Tech rallies to beat No. 1 Arizona 78-75 in OT

Wildcats suffer second straight loss after previously being undefeated

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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JT Toppin scored 31 points, including 8 in overtime, to lead No. 16 Texas Tech to a shocking 78-75 upset victory over previously undefeated and top-ranked Arizona on Saturday. The loss was Arizona's second straight after falling to No. 9 Kansas earlier in the week.

Why it matters

This upset loss is a major blow to Arizona's national championship aspirations, as they were one of the last remaining undefeated teams in Division I basketball. Texas Tech's victory over the top-ranked Wildcats is a signature win that boosts their own NCAA Tournament resume.

The details

Texas Tech erased a 64-57 Arizona lead in the final 3:29 of regulation, tying the game at 66 on a pair of free throws. In overtime, Toppin took over, scoring 8 of Texas Tech's 12 points to secure the upset victory. Arizona was playing short-handed, missing star freshman Koa Peat in the second half due to injury and backup guard Dwayne Aristode due to illness.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
  • Arizona had previously lost to No. 9 Kansas on Monday, February 10, 2026.

The players

JT Toppin

A preseason All-America selection who scored 31 points and had 13 rebounds for Texas Tech.

Christian Anderson

The Texas Tech guard scored 19 points, including 6 three-pointers.

Tobe Awaka

The Arizona forward had 16 points and 12 rebounds in the loss.

Brayden Burries

The Arizona freshman scored 16 points in the defeat.

Koa Peat

The Arizona freshman starter missed the second half due to a lower-body injury.

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What they’re saying

“This was a huge win for our program. Our guys really battled and showed a lot of heart to come back and win this game.”

— Chris Beard, Texas Tech Head Coach (Texas Tech Athletics)

“We just didn't have enough in the tank tonight. Losing Koa was a big blow and we couldn't overcome it. Credit to Texas Tech, they made the plays when it counted.”

— Tommy Lloyd, Arizona Head Coach (Arizona Athletics)

What’s next

Texas Tech will look to build on this signature win when they travel to face Arizona State on Tuesday, February 18th. Arizona, meanwhile, will try to get back on track when they host BYU on Wednesday, February 19th.

The takeaway

This upset loss is a major setback for Arizona's national title aspirations, as they have now suffered consecutive defeats after starting the season 23-0. Texas Tech, on the other hand, has proven it can compete with the best teams in the country and boosts its own NCAA Tournament resume with this impressive road victory.