Anthony Dell’Orso picked the perfect moment to shine, and boy, did Arizona need it. With the Wildcats facing a tough lineup without some key players, Dell’Orso delivered a standout performance, scoring 22 points to help the 4th-ranked Wildcats secure a 75-68 victory over No.
23 BYU at McKale Center. This win not only snapped a two-game skid but also positioned Arizona in a tie with Houston atop the Big 12 standings, setting the stage for an exciting showdown on Saturday.
Dell’Orso’s shooting was on fire, hitting 4 of 8 from beyond the arc. He was joined by Ivan Kharchenkov, who added 18 points, and Jaden Bradley, who notched a double-double with 12 points and 10 assists. The Wildcats were efficient from deep, making 9 of 21 three-pointers, a key factor in their offensive strategy.
BYU’s freshman sensation AJ Dybantsa put up a valiant effort, scoring 35 points, but he had to work for every basket, shooting 13 of 28. The Cougars, missing Richie Saunders due to an ACL injury, struggled from three-point range, going 5 of 19.
Arizona faced its own challenges with Koa Peat and Dwayne Aristode sidelined. Tobe Awaka stepped in for Peat but had a quiet night with 3 points and 6 rebounds. Freshman Sidi Gueye made the most of his 10 minutes, contributing crucial points and rebounds.
The Wildcats led 42-35 at halftime and extended their lead with some highlight-reel plays, including a Bradley alley-oop to Gueye. Despite a scoring drought, Dell’Orso’s timely three-pointer kept Arizona in control.
BYU made a late push, cutting the lead to 73-68 with just over a minute left. However, a game-sealing steal by Motiejus Krivas set up Dell’Orso for a dunk that put the game out of reach.
Arizona’s win sets up a thrilling clash against No. 2 Houston, a team that has had their number in recent years. With momentum on their side, the Wildcats are poised for another intense battle as they continue their Big 12 campaign.