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Arizona Tops Houston, Wins Big 12 Tournament Title

PUBLISHED Mar 14, 2026, 2:12 PM ET

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Sources: 6

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Sources: 6

KANSAS CITY, Mo. Arizona beat Houston 79-74 Saturday to win the Big 12 Tournament final and secure the conference championship. Brayden Burries scored 21 points and made two clinching free throws with 8.3 seconds remaining, while Koa Peat added 21 and Jaden Bradley contributed 13. Arizona finished the season 32-2 and extends its winning streak to nine, and Houston fell to 28-6. Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark presented the trophy to coach Tommy Lloyd. The Wildcats head to the NCAA Tournament as a projected No. 1 seed. All details confirmed and verified. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

2022: Houston beat Arizona in the NCAA Sweet 16, prompting program adjustments.
Pre-2024-25: Arizona officially joined the Big 12 Conference ahead of the season.
2024-25 regular season: Arizona and Houston ranked among the top teams in the Big 12.
14th March 2025: Arizona defeated Houston 79-74 in the Big 12 Tournament final.
Post-tournament: Arizona stood at 32-2 and carried momentum and stronger seeding prospects into the NCAA Tournament.

News Intelligence

Arizona's victory is a testament to the power of adaptation. After losing to Houston in 2022, they made program changes that led to this win. It's a reminder that setbacks can fuel future success. If you're facing a challenge, remember the Arizona Wildcats.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 6
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 6

Who Benefited

Arizona's basketball program, coaches and players benefited from winning the Big 12 Tournament, improving seeding prospects, enhancing national profile and gaining momentum heading into the NCAA Tournament.

Who Impacted

Houston's program and players suffered a tournament loss that likely reduced their chance at a No. 1 seed and temporarily dented momentum despite a strong season record.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 6
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 6
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Who Impacted

Houston's program and players suffered a tournament loss that likely reduced their chance at a No. 1 seed and temporarily dented momentum despite a strong season record.