In an exciting matchup, the No. 1 Arizona Wildcats (13-0) are set to face off against the Utah Utes (8-5) at the Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City. The game kicks off at 2 p.m. and can be viewed on Peacock or tuned into via 1290-AM.
Arizona’s lineup is highlighted by senior guard Jaden Bradley, along with promising freshmen Brayden Burries, Ivan Kharchenkov, Koa Peat, and junior center Motiejus Krivas. Key reserves include seniors Anthony Dell’Orso and Tobe Awaka and freshman Dwayne Aristode, all poised to contribute off the bench.
On the opposing side, Utah features junior guard Terrence Brown and senior guard Don McHenry, who have been instrumental in the Utes’ offensive strategies. Their lineup also includes Seydou Traore, Keanu Davis, and senior big man James Okonkwo. Brown and McHenry are expected to lead the backcourt, with McHenry being a formidable three-point shooter at 42.5%.
The historical series between the two teams finds Arizona leading with 41 wins to Utah’s 32, though the Wildcats have struggled recently at the Huntsman Center, with a 2-3 record in their last five visits. In their last meeting, Arizona narrowly escaped with a win after three overtimes in February 2024.
Under new head coach Alex Jensen, Utah has seen a transformation in its lineup, relying heavily on the transfer portal to fill in gaps left by former starters. Jensen’s approach emphasizes a strong defensive identity, akin to that of Houston’s at their peak. Utah’s strategy has proven effective, as they recently managed to out-rebound Washington 36-32.
Key players for both teams will be crucial in determining the game’s outcome. For Utah, Brown has emerged as a significant contributor and is ranked first in the Big 12 for free throw attempts and makes, showcasing his aggressive playstyle. On the Arizona side, freshman Burries has found his rhythm recently and will need to perform well against a strong and experienced Utah backcourt.
As both teams prepare for this conference showdown, fans can expect an intense battle filled with high stakes. Arizona, currently ranked third in the nation for adjusted defensive efficiency, will aim to maintain its undefeated status against a Utah squad looking to establish itself in conference play after a rocky start. This matchup holds promise, with both teams under pressure to showcase their strengths and make an impactful start to the new year in the Pac-12.