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Arizona Clinches Final Four After Elite Eight Comeback Win

PUBLISHED Mar 29, 2026, 1:33 AM ET

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San Jose — Arizona, the No. 1 seed, rallied from a seven-point halftime deficit to defeat No. 2 Purdue 79-64 in the Elite Eight at the SAP Center on Saturday, advancing the Wildcats to the NCAA Final Four for the first time since 2001. The Wildcats outscored Purdue 48-26 after a players-only halftime meeting and finishing adjustments from coach Tommy Lloyd; Arizona will learn its Final Four opponent on Sunday and has drawn renewed attention regarding Lloyd's potential candidacy for other coaching vacancies.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Arizona entered the NCAA Tournament as a No. 1 seed and progressed to the Elite Eight.
In the Elite Eight at the SAP Center in San Jose, Arizona trailed Purdue by seven at halftime (Saturday).
Players held a players-only halftime meeting; coach Tommy Lloyd emphasized rebounding and steadiness.
Arizona outscored Purdue 48-26 in the second half and won 79-64, clinching a Final Four berth.
Media and outlets reported the victory and discussed program implications and potential coaching-market interest in Lloyd.

News Intelligence

If you're a Wildcats fan, this is a big deal. Arizona hasn't made it to the Final Four since
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It's a testament to the team's resilience and Coach Lloyd's leadership. If you're into sports betting, keep an eye on Arizona's next opponent.

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Who Benefited

The University of Arizona basketball program, its coaching staff, players, athletic department, fans, and media partners benefited from heightened exposure, recruiting leverage, potential revenue gains, and strengthened national profile after the Elite Eight victory.

Who Impacted

Purdue University, its players, coaching staff, and supporters suffered the immediate consequence of tournament elimination, losing the opportunity for further advancement, exposure, and associated revenues from continued NCAA Tournament play.

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