The University of Arizona men’s basketball team defeated the University of Central Florida 88-80 Saturday evening on Jan. 11 in McKale Center, notching their six-straight win and improving to 10-5 overall and 4-0 in Big 12 play.
Guard Caleb Love led the Wildcats with 16 points, eight rebounds, and six assists while shooting 5-of-12 from the field and 4-of-7 from beyond the arc. Complementing Love was Anthony Dell’Orso, who scored 15 points, including a perfect 9-of-9 performance from the free-throw line.
During the first half, Arizona jumped out to an early lead behind a 9-0 scoring run. The Wildcats extended their lead to double digits, with Tobe Awaka throwing down a dunk to stretch the 14-point advantage with 9:38 remaining in the first half.
Arizona maintained its edge for much of the half, shooting 50 percent from the field in the opening 20 minutes. However, UCF kept the game within reach, dominating the offensive glass with 12 first-half offensive rebounds and scoring 11 second-chance points.
As the first half wound down, UCF mounted an 18-6 scoring run sparked by a 3-point play by forward Rokas Jocius. This surge brought the Knights back into the game, tying it at 42-all late in the half. However, Trey Townsend responded for Arizona with an and-1 layup, giving the Wildcats a 3-point lead heading into halftime.
The Knights carried their momentum into the second half, quickly tying the game at 45-all just 13 seconds in, thanks to a 3-pointer by Darius Johnson. However, Arizona regained control shortly after, as Townsend’s free throw put the Wildcats ahead. Love and Dell’Orso both contributed for critical baskets, helping Arizona build a 53-50 lead.
Midway through the second half, the Wildcats delivered a decisive 13-4 run provided by clutch plays provided from their bench. Henri Veesaar, KJ Lewis and Carter Bryant combined for timely scoring and Love drained a key 3-pointer during this stretch. The run gave Arizona an 11-point cushion, allowing them to maintain control of the game.
Though UCF continued to battle, cutting the deficit to single-digits multiple times, Arizona’s efficient shooting and strong free-throw performance helped maintain control over the lead. Dell’Orso was especially reliable down the stretch, converting all nine of his free-throw attempts to secure the 88-80 win.
The Wildcats shot 47 percent from the field and 39 percent from 3-point range, showcasing its offensive ability. Bench contributions were also pivotal, as Lewis, Veesaar and Bryant combined for 28 points and shot 70 percent from the floor. Despite this, turnovers plagued the Wildcats throughout the game, with their 14 giveaways leading to 18 UCF points.
Looking ahead
Arizona’s next challenge comes on Tuesday, Jan. 14 when the Wildcats host Baylor University (11-4, 3-1 Big 12) at 9 p.m. in McKale Center. Arizona looks to remain unbeaten in Big 12 play.
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