No. 1 Arizona edges No. 13 BYU in thriller

Wildcats tie school record with 21-0 start to season

Jan. 27, 2026 at 6:07pm

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The top-ranked Arizona Wildcats survived a late comeback attempt by No. 13 BYU to win 86-83 on the road, tying a school record with their 21st straight victory to open the season. Guards Jaden Bradley and Brayden Burries combined for 55 points to lead the Wildcats, who held BYU star AJ Dybantsa to 6-of-24 shooting despite his 24 points.

Why it matters

Arizona's victory over a ranked opponent on the road keeps the Wildcats undefeated and solidifies their status as one of the top teams in the country. The win also highlights the strength of Arizona's backcourt, which could be a key factor in the team's success come March Madness.

The details

Despite giving up 83 points, Arizona's defense held BYU to just 40% shooting and forced 13 turnovers. The Wildcats also got to the free throw line 32 times, making 26 of those attempts. Bradley and Burries combined to shoot 15-of-25 from the field, including 4-of-7 from 3-point range.

  • The game was played on Monday, January 27, 2026.
  • Arizona's 21-0 start ties a school record set during the 2013-14 season.

The players

Arizona Wildcats

The No. 1 ranked college basketball team, led by head coach Tommy Lloyd.

Jaden Bradley

Arizona's starting point guard, who scored 27 points and hit clutch shots down the stretch.

Brayden Burries

Arizona's starting shooting guard, who scored 28 points and made a game-saving block in the final seconds.

AJ Dybantsa

BYU's star freshman forward, who was held to 6-of-24 shooting despite scoring 24 points.

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What they’re saying

“Good win on the road. Got another one Saturday at that school up north!”

— Arizona Basketball

What’s next

Arizona will look to continue its undefeated season on Saturday when it faces in-state rival Arizona State.

The takeaway

Arizona's elite backcourt duo of Jaden Bradley and Brayden Burries proved to be the difference, as the Wildcats held off a late BYU comeback to remain undefeated. If Arizona can continue to get strong guard play and improve its free throw shooting, the Wildcats could be poised for a deep NCAA Tournament run.