Arizona crushes UCF to reach Big 12 semifinals

Brayden Burries scores 21 points as Wildcats cruise to 81-59 victory

Mar. 13, 2026 at 12:10pm

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Top-seeded Arizona never trailed as they cruised to an 81-59 victory over eighth-seeded UCF in the Big 12 tournament quarterfinals. Brayden Burries led the Wildcats with 21 points, while Tobe Awaka added a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. UCF's Themus Fulks scored 14 points in the loss, but the Knights are still expected to receive an at-large NCAA Tournament berth.

Why it matters

Arizona, the tournament's top seed, continues its dominant run through the Big 12 tournament, setting up a semifinal matchup with fifth-seeded Iowa State. UCF, despite the loss, is still projected to make the NCAA Tournament field as an at-large team, showcasing the strength of the Big 12 conference.

The details

Arizona raced out to an early lead and never looked back, leading by as many as 22 points in the second half. The Wildcats shot 53% from the field and outrebounded UCF 40-29. Tobe Awaka was a force inside for Arizona, while Brayden Burries led the way offensively.

  • The quarterfinal matchup took place on Thursday afternoon in Kansas City.

The players

Brayden Burries

The leading scorer for Arizona, pouring in 21 points to pace the Wildcats' offense.

Tobe Awaka

Recorded a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds for Arizona.

Themus Fulks

Led UCF with 14 points in the losing effort.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to play with this level of intensity if we want to win the Big 12 championship.”

— Brayden Burries, Arizona Guard

What’s next

Arizona will face fifth-seeded Iowa State in Friday night's first semifinal.

The takeaway

Arizona's dominant performance showcases their status as the tournament's top seed, as they continue their quest for the Big 12 title. Meanwhile, UCF's strong showing despite the loss solidifies their position as an at-large NCAA Tournament team, highlighting the depth and competitiveness of the Big 12 conference.