Arizona Stuns Iowa State with Last-Second Heroics in Big 12 Tournament

Jaden Bradley's game-winning shot caps off an epic battle between two top teams

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:55pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the climactic final seconds of a college basketball game, with players' bodies and the ball breaking down into sharp, overlapping shapes and planes of color.A cubist interpretation of the thrilling final moments of the Arizona-Iowa State matchup, capturing the raw energy and drama of the game-winning shot.South Huntington Today

The Big 12 Tournament delivered an early March Madness preview, with an epic showdown between Arizona and Iowa State. The game came down to the wire, with Arizona's Jaden Bradley hitting a clutch game-winning shot in the final seconds to seal the victory for the Wildcats. Bradley's composure and instincts under pressure were on full display, showcasing why he's the Big 12 Player of the Year.

Why it matters

This game was a thrilling preview of the excitement to come in the NCAA Tournament. The matchup between two top teams highlighted the high-stakes, clutch performances, and unpredictable nature that make college basketball so captivating. Arizona's victory also sets them up as a team to watch as they look to make a deep tournament run.

The details

Jaden Bradley, Arizona's star player, hit the game-winning shot with just seconds remaining to lift the Wildcats over Iowa State. Bradley described the moment not as a meticulously planned play, but as going with the flow and trusting his instincts. Arizona's coach, Tommy Lloyd, made a strategic decision not to call a timeout during the final possession, allowing his team to 'figure it out' on the court. This level of trust in his players paid off, as the Wildcats displayed remarkable chemistry and resilience throughout the game.

  • The game between Arizona and Iowa State took place during the 2026 Big 12 Tournament.

The players

Jaden Bradley

The Big 12 Player of the Year, who hit the game-winning shot for Arizona in the final seconds.

Tommy Lloyd

The head coach of the Arizona Wildcats, who made a strategic decision not to call a timeout during the final possession, trusting his players to execute.

Anthony Dell'Orso

An Arizona player who stepped up and knocked down crucial shots, showcasing the team's chemistry and belief in one another.

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What they’re saying

“We must go with the flow and trust our instincts. That's what makes the great players stand out.”

— Jaden Bradley, Big 12 Player of the Year

“I knew my guys had practiced those 'figure-it-out' situations, and I trusted them to make the right plays.”

— Tommy Lloyd, Head Coach, Arizona Wildcats

“When we're all in sync and confident, that's when we're at our best. We're ready to take on whatever comes our way.”

— Anthony Dell'Orso, Arizona Player

What’s next

As Arizona moves forward, they'll face either Houston or Kansas in the next round of the tournament. The Wildcats' ability to maintain their momentum and confidence will be crucial in their upcoming battles.

The takeaway

This game was a microcosm of what makes college basketball so captivating. It had drama, skill, and the unpredictable nature of sport. Arizona's victory showcases their talent, strategy, and mental fortitude, making them a team to watch as the NCAA Tournament unfolds.