Arizona basketball hosts Samford and looks to even out their season record. Read more for a full Arizona vs Samford prediction and preview.
General Information:
Teams: Arizona (3-4) and Samford (9-2)
Tip-off: 7 p.m. MST
Watch: ESPN
Latest on Arizona basketball:
In narrow 57-54 loss to No. 18 UCLA, the Wildcats saw a double-digit lead slip away. Despite the defeat, Jaden Bradley led Arizona with 12 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 steals, while Caleb Love added 7 points and 6 rebounds.
Following strong shooting (54.2% in the first half), the Wildcats struggled with turnovers, committing 13 in the first half alone. Arizona has been inconsistent this season, now 2-3 in its last five games, and is coping with the absence of key player Motiejus Krivas, who is out indefinitely with a lower leg injury.
Latest on Samford basketball:
Samford is on a five-game win streak, sporting a 9-2 record and ranking second nationally in scoring (90.5 PPG). In their latest 72-47 win over Austin Peay, the Bulldogs dominated the second half, capitalizing on turnovers and second-chance points.
Rylan Jones and Jaden Fort led offensively, while the bench, including Lukas Walls and Larry Olayinka, provided key contributions. Despite a 2-2 road record, Samford’s offensive depth and defensive pressure make them a dangerous team heading into their next game.
The Wildcats have faced the Bulldogs just once in program history, defeating them 86-57 at McKale Arena on November 22, 2006.
Arizona vs Samford prediction:
The Bulldogs are coming in with momentum and will challenge the Wildcats’ defense, especially beyond the arc. Regardless, home court advantage is major at McKale and Samford will be hushed in the second half … I’m feeling an Arizona win (82 – 67).