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Arizona Basketball Focused on Long-Term Goals After Kansas Loss
Tobe Awaka reassures fans that the team is not concerned about the defeat, with their sights set on March Madness success.
Feb. 11, 2026 at 10:39pm
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After Arizona basketball's first loss of the season against Kansas, Tobe Awaka emphasized that the team is focused on its long-term goals and not overly concerned about the 82-78 defeat. Awaka noted that the Wildcats could have gone undefeated in the regular season but still lost in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, which would have been a failure. Despite struggling with Kansas's defense and free-throw shooting, Arizona remains confident in its ability to be a major factor in March Madness.
Why it matters
Arizona's loss to Kansas was their first of the season, but the Wildcats are taking a big-picture approach, knowing that regular season success is ultimately judged by postseason performance. This mindset shows the team's maturity and focus on their ultimate goal of winning a national championship, rather than getting caught up in the disappointment of a single regular season defeat.
The details
Arizona led 45-42 at halftime, but Kansas outscored the Wildcats by 16 points over a 10-minute stretch in the second half. The Wildcats struggled from the field, shooting just 37.1% after halftime, and also had issues at the free-throw line, making only 8 of 14 attempts compared to Kansas's 21 of 25. Brayden Burries led Arizona with 25 points, while Motiejus Krivas added 14 points, 15 rebounds, 4 assists, and 6 blocks. However, standout players Jaden Bradley and Koa Peat combined for only 12 points.
- Arizona led 45-42 at halftime.
- Less than 3 minutes into the second half, Kansas took a 55-44 lead.
The players
Tobe Awaka
An Arizona basketball player who emphasized the team's long-term focus after the loss to Kansas.
Brayden Burries
An Arizona basketball player who scored a team-high 25 points in the loss to Kansas.
Motiejus Krivas
An Arizona basketball player who had a strong all-around game with 14 points, 15 rebounds, 4 assists, and 6 blocks.
Jaden Bradley
An Arizona basketball player who struggled, scoring only 6 points in the loss.
Koa Peat
An Arizona basketball player who also scored only 6 points in the loss to Kansas.
What they’re saying
“Not to say the loss didn't matter, but our view is more long-term. We could have gone undefeated and lost in the first round, and it would have been a waste of a season.”
— Tobe Awaka, Arizona Basketball Player
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.
