Arizona basketball (8-5) opened up the New Year with a thrilling 72-67 win over No. 16 Cincinnati (10-3) in their first away game in Big 12 conference play.
This upset marks the Wildcats’ first win against a ranked opponent for the 2024-25 season, solidifying their position as a team to watch in their inaugural season in the Big 12.
Despite a strong start, Arizona basketball nearly fumbled a 19-point lead, with Cincinnati making a late push to tie the game at 64-64 in the final minute. But the Wildcats held strong and managed to secure the win, improving their Big 12 record to 2-0.
The first half was arguably the best Arizona has played this season, with a balanced attack that saw them put up 15 points off the bench and snag 19 rebounds.
The Wildcats were able to capitalize on key defensive plays, including a massive block from Henri Veesaar that led to a fast-break dunk by Caleb Love, who was fouled on the play and hit one of two free throws at the buzzer. This gave Arizona a 39-26 lead heading into the break..
That halftime advantage proved vital, as Cincinnati surged in the second half. However, the Wildcats held on to win 72-67, extending their all-time series lead over the Bearcats to 4-0.
Takeaway #1: Veesaar’s victory
In the absence of injured center Motiejus Krivas, Henri Veesaar stepped up and delivered one of the most impactful performances of his young career.
The sophomore finished the game with 8 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 blocks, including a crucial defensive play late in the first half that set the tone for the Wildcats’ victory. His rejection of a Cincinnati shot, which led to a fast-break dunk from Caleb Love, not only energized the team but also gave Arizona a 13-point lead at halftime.
Veesaar was a force on both ends of the floor, particularly on the glass, where his 9 rebounds were a game-high. His ability to disrupt Cincinnati’s offensive flow and finish around the rim in key moments made him the standout performer of the night. His all-around effort was a crucial factor in Arizona’s victory.
Takeaway #2: Bearcats almost clutched up
As the game neared its final moments, Arizona found its on the brink of letting a hard-earned lead slip away. Late in the second half, Cincinnati mounted an electrifying 9-0 run that had the Fifth Third Arena crowd roaring. The Bearcats, led by a series of aggressive drives and second-chance opportunities, turned the tide and brought the game to a tie at 64-64 with a clutch layup from Dan Skillings Jr.
The momentum was clearly shifting in Cincinnati’s favor, and for a brief moment, it seemed like the Wildcats might falter under the pressure. Arizona had been in control for most of the game, but as the minutes wound down, the Bearcats’ intensity increased.
Just when it seemed like Cincinnati had all the momentum, Jaden Bradley rose to the occasion for Arizona. The junior guard responded with a critical layup to give the Wildcats the lead. He continued by showing poise at the line and draining two key free throws, extending Arizona’s lead back to 66-64 with just over a minute left.
Takeaway #3: The Wildcats are so back
It feels like just yesterday when Arizona basketball was struggling to find their rhythm. At 4-5, the Wildcats were reeling from a heart-wrenching loss to No. 15 UCLA, a game in which they had every opportunity to win but ultimately fell short. Losing Motiejus Krivas to a season-ending foot injury seemed to be the nail in the coffin.
But fast forward to Jan. 4, and this Arizona basketball squad is a completely different team. The Wildcats have not only bounced back, but they’ve done so with a newfound confidence that’s evident in their play. At 8-5, including a perfect 2-0 record in their first season in the Big 12, Arizona has shown they are capable of overcoming adversity and emerging stronger.
Next up for Arizona (8-5, 2-0): at West Virginia (11-2, 2-0) Jan. 7 at 5 p.m. EST
Next up for Cincinnati (10-3, 0-2): at Baylor (9-4, 1-1) – Jan. 7 at 8 p.m. EST