Arizona Faces Tough Challenge in Wide-Open Big 12 Tournament

Several teams, including Houston, Kansas, and BYU, could knock off the Wildcats in Kansas City

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The 2026 Big 12 men's basketball tournament in Kansas City is shaping up to be a wide-open affair, with several teams capable of ending Arizona's run. The Wildcats won the Big 12's regular season title and went 29-2, but they had to survive a crowded conference to do so. Teams like Houston, Kansas, Iowa State, and BYU all have the potential to pull off upsets and make deep tournament runs.

Why it matters

The Big 12 tournament is a key stepping stone for teams looking to secure a high seed in the NCAA tournament. With several contenders capable of knocking off the favored Wildcats, the tournament could have major implications on the national landscape heading into March Madness.

The details

Arizona dominated much of the Big 12 season, picking up blowout wins over Kansas and Iowa State. However, they had to grind through a tough conference schedule to claim the regular season title. Houston, led by veteran coach Kelvin Sampson, could be the best bet to take down the Wildcats, having already proven their Final Four potential. Kansas is another threat, especially if potential lottery pick Darryn Peterson can stay on the floor. Iowa State and BYU also have the talent to pull off upsets in Kansas City.

  • The 2026 Big 12 men's basketball tournament will take place from March 10-14 in Kansas City, Missouri.
  • The championship game is scheduled for Saturday, March 14 at 6 p.m. ET.

The players

Arizona

The Wildcats won the Big 12's regular season title and went 29-2 this year, dominating many of their opponents.

Houston

The Cougars went 26-5 this season and have repeatedly looked capable of making another Final Four run under veteran coach Kelvin Sampson.

Darryn Peterson

The potential NBA lottery pick has been absent frequently this season for Kansas, but the Jayhawks look like a top tier team when he's at his best.

AJ Dybantsa

The BYU star could lead the Cougars to an upset win or two in Kansas City, even with the recent ACL injury to teammate Richie Saudners.

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What they’re saying

“Sure, Arizona looks like a true No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament. But the Big 12 tournament is not theirs by any means.”

— Ryan Young, Author (yahoo.com)

What’s next

The Big 12 tournament bracket will be finalized on Selection Sunday, with the winner likely earning a top seed in the NCAA tournament.

The takeaway

The 2026 Big 12 tournament is shaping up to be one of the most wide-open and competitive in recent memory, with several teams capable of knocking off the favored Wildcats and shaking up the national landscape heading into March Madness.