The University of Arizona women’s basketball team (10-6, 4-1 in Big 12) lost to the University of Central Florida (9-7, 4-1 in Big 12), 58-55, on Saturday, Jan. 10 in McKale Center. Playing without their leading scorer, Mickayla Perdue, who averages 17.1 points per game, Arizona struggled to sink perimeter shots throughout the game.
Game Highlights and Key Players
UCF’s junior forward, Khyala Ngodu, dominated in the paint, finishing with 22 points on an efficient 64% shooting. Ngodu also contributed 13 rebounds and four steals, impacting the game on both ends of the floor.
On the Arizona side, veteran forward Nora Francois led a balanced attack, recording a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Noelani Cornfield was a defensive standout, tallying seven steals and helping the Wildcats force 23 turnovers against the Knights.
First Half
The game opened with intense hustle plays and physical defense, setting the tone for the rest of the contest. Arizona took an early 2 point lead, but turnovers soon led to easy UCF layups. Ngodu provided a scoring boost for UCF, giving her team the lead before the end of the first quarter.
The second quarter featured continued physical play and frequent second-chance opportunities for both teams. Mireia Jurado made the only 3-pointer of the game, but the scoring remained low. A 15-foot jumper by Cornfield and another Knights layup resulted in UCF holding a 25-22 advantage at halftime.
Second Half
Both teams started the second half trading missed layups and turnovers until UCF’s frontcourt, led by Mahogany Chandler-Roberts and Ngodu, notched two quick baskets. Arizona struggled to match UCF’s physicality and failed to capitalize on opportunities, though a late third-quarter surge brought the Wildcats within one point. Ngodu answered with a layup to extend UCF’s lead to 41-38.
UCF tightened its defense in the fourth quarter, allowing just 3 points for Arizona in the first five minutes. The Knights’ frontcourt continued to score, and with four minutes remaining, they held their biggest lead at 49-41. Arizona responded with strong defense and urgent offense, cutting the deficit to three points with 36 seconds left. However, UCF beat Arizona’s press and scored a final layup to secure the win.
Coach’s Reaction
Arizona head coach Becky Burke emphasized the need for the team to “look in the mirror” and take responsibility for the loss, highlighting toughness and rebounding as immediate priorities moving forward.
Looking Ahead
Arizona will travel to face the 13th-ranked Texas Christian University on Saturday, Jan. 17. The Wildcats are aiming to return to the win column in conference play. The game will be streamed on ESPN+.
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