UCF rallies late to beat Arizona State 79-76

Knights use 14-2 run to tie it late before Burks hits game-winning 3-pointer

Jan. 27, 2026 at 9:47pm

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UCF overcame a late double-digit deficit, using a 14-2 run to tie the game at 72-72 with 2:30 remaining. Jordan Burks then hit a 3-pointer with 34 seconds left to give the Knights a 78-76 lead, and UCF held on for the 79-76 victory over Arizona State.

Why it matters

This comeback win over a Pac-12 opponent is a big boost for UCF's NCAA Tournament hopes as they look to build on their strong 16-4 start to the season. The Knights showed resilience to battle back from a large deficit late in the game.

The details

Riley Kugel led UCF with 17 points, while Jordan Burks scored 15 points, including the game-winning 3-pointer in the final minute. Jamichael Stillwell added 14 points for the Knights. For Arizona State, Maurice Odum scored a team-high 18 points, and Anthony Johnson and Bryce Ford also reached double figures.

  • The game was played on Tuesday, January 28, 2026.
  • UCF used a 14-2 run to tie the game at 72-72 with 2:30 remaining.
  • Burks hit the go-ahead 3-pointer for UCF with 34 seconds left to make it 78-76.
  • Themus Fulks split a pair of free throws for UCF with 6 seconds left to seal the 79-76 victory.

The players

Riley Kugel

A UCF player who scored a team-high 17 points in the win.

Jordan Burks

A UCF player who scored 15 points, including the game-winning 3-pointer in the final minute.

Maurice Odum

An Arizona State player who scored a team-high 18 points, including three 3-pointers.

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What they’re saying

“We showed a lot of fight to come back and get this win. The guys never gave up and made the plays when it mattered most.”

— Johnny Dawkins, UCF Head Coach (Orlando Sentinel)

What’s next

UCF will host No. 11 Texas Tech on Saturday as they look to build on this comeback victory.

The takeaway

UCF's resilient comeback win over Arizona State demonstrates the team's ability to battle back from large deficits, a valuable trait as they push for an NCAA Tournament berth this season.