On December 16, 2025, at 1:49 p.m. ET, the Abilene Christian Wildcats (7-3) will face off against the No. 2 ranked Arizona Wildcats (9-0) at McKale Memorial Center in Tucson, Arizona. The highly anticipated match is scheduled to tip-off at 9 p.m. ET, with the game available for viewing on ESPN+.
This matchup marks Abilene Christian’s first encounter with a top-10 team since their stunning victory against the Texas Longhorns, who were then ranked No. 9, during the first round of the NCAA Tournament in 2021. For Arizona, currently the top team in The Associated Press’ rankings, this will be Abilene Christian’s inaugural attempt against a No. 1 ranked team.
Coming off a recent triumph over New Mexico State, where Abilene Christian won 77-69 as a 1.5-point underdog, the Wildcats have been on a roll with three consecutive victories. In that game, forward Bradyn Hubbard contributed 16 points, despite a challenging shooting performance, while guard Cbo Newton led with 17 points off the bench. During the past four games, Abilene Christian has managed to go 3-1 against the spread (ATS), with the Under going 4-2-1 in total points across seven contests this season.
In contrast, Arizona showcased their dominance in their latest game with a convincing 96-75 win against Alabama, where center Motiejus Krivas shined with a double-double of 14 points and 14 rebounds, and guard Brayden Burries tallied an impressive 28 points. The Wildcats have also been performing well against the spread, covering the line in three straight games and five of their last six. Notably, Arizona has scored 93 or more points in six of their nine games played so far this season.
As the teams prepare to face each other, the odds from BetMGM Sportsbook reflect Arizona’s commanding presence, with the moneyline still off the board. Abilene Christian is set at +34.5 and Arizona at -34.5 against the spread. For the over/under, the total is set at 145.5 points.
In terms of predictions, while Arizona is favored strongly, there is a cautious optimism surrounding Abilene Christian, who are considered a risky play against such a high-ranking opponent. Despite Arizona’s efficiency in lopsided victories this season, it may not be an easy cover at such a hefty spread. The over/under at 145.5 might provide a better betting opportunity, especially given Arizona’s recent scoring trends.
This matchup promises to be an exciting showdown between the experienced Arizona Wildcats and an hungry, rising Abilene Christian team eager to prove themselves on a national stage.