The University of Arizona men’s basketball team looks to remain undefeated and improve to 18-0 and 5-0 in Big 12 play as they travel to Orlando to play the University of Central Florida (14-2, 3-1 in Big 12 play). The teams will meet on Saturday, Jan. 17 in the Addition Financial Arena at 2 p.m. MST. 

The Wildcats are looking to build off their previous win against rival ASU where they won 89-82. UCF is hoping to build off their previous two wins against the University of Cincinnati and Kansas State University.  

Arizona key players

For the Wildcats, freshman forward Koa Peat is having a stellar season leading the team. Peat and Brayden Burries were named the 2025-2026 Wayman Tisdale Award mid-season watchlist on Friday, Jan. 16. Peat is averaging 15.3 points per game, which is the lead scorer for the Wildcats. Peat has become one of the best interior scorers for the Wildcats, as well as becoming a force on the defensive interior. Peat is a strong presence down low and makes life easier for his teammates on the perimeter. 

Next up is another freshman forward Ivan Kharchenkov. Even though Kharchenkov only averages 9.2 points a game, he is always a jolt of energy as he leads the team in total steals with 31. Expect Kharchenkov to come in and make a big impact on the defensive side of the ball. 

Senior Tobe Awaka is coming into this game after recording his career high of 25 points, five rebounds and a block. Awaka comes in and gives Arizona even more momentum with his dunks and his physical and mental strength. 

UCF key players 

First up for the Knights is senior guard Riley Kugel. Kugel averages 14.8 points per game along with 3.4 rebounds and 2.7 assists. Expect Kugel to stretch the floor as he leads the team in 3-pointers collecting 30 for the season thus far.  

The second person to look at is fifth-year guard Themus Fulks. Fulks is averaging 13 points per game and 3.2 rebounds. He has the second most attempted free throws this season recording 54, so expect him to be sent to the line for UCF. 

With two competitive teams meeting in Orlando, this game could come down to execution on both ends. Arizona will rely on its depth and interior presence, while UCF looks to use guard play and shooting to defend their home court. 

Follow the Daily Wildcat on Instagram and Twitter/X