Jayhawks Upset No. 1 Arizona in Thrilling Matchup
The Kansas Jayhawks secured an 82-78 victory over the No. 1 ranked Arizona Wildcats on Monday, marking Arizona's first loss of the season (23-1, 10-1 Big 12). This win was highly significant, as it was the first time KU defeated a No. 1 team at Allen Fieldhouse under coach Bill Self. Adding to the accolades, Self also achieved a 40-0 record in the building on "Big Mondays."
The Kansas Jayhawks pulled off a significant 82-78 upset over the No. 1 ranked Arizona Wildcats, handing Arizona its first loss of the season and marking a historic win for Coach Bill Self at Allen Fieldhouse.
Kansas played without star Darryn Peterson, who was sidelined due to flu-like symptoms, marking his 11th missed game this season.
Game Highlights
Arizona initially led 45-42 at halftime. The Wildcats dominated the paint with 24 first-half points, and their 7-foot-2 center, Motiejus Krivas, contributed eight points, nine rebounds, and three blocks in the first half.
In the second half, Arizona extended its lead to 11 points with a 10-2 run. Kansas responded emphatically with a 9-2 run, sparked by a crucial three-pointer from senior point guard Melvin Council Jr.
Despite Arizona's 45-42 halftime lead and an 11-point advantage early in the second half, Kansas fought back with key runs and strong individual performances.
Melvin Council Jr. and center Flory Bidunga each finished with an impressive 23 points. Freshman forward Bryson Tiller scored 14 of his 18 points in the first half, and redshirt sophomore Jamari McDowell, starting in place of Peterson, added 10 points.
Defensive Turnaround
After struggling defensively in early January, allowing 89 points per game in two of their first three Big 12 games, the Jayhawks have showcased a remarkable improvement. Since then, Kansas has maintained the third-best defense in college basketball. The team adjusted its strategy effectively to contain Arizona's potent presence in the paint during the second half.
Kansas, which had struggled defensively earlier in the season, showcased its vastly improved defense, particularly in the second half, with Flory Bidunga's rim protection proving crucial.
Bidunga's rim protection was noted as a significant factor in the team's defensive success. He cemented his impact with a game-sealing block on Arizona freshman Brayden Burries in the final minute of play.
Team Outlook and Coach Self's Perspective
Coach Self acknowledged the team's improvement, particularly highlighting its defensive capabilities. He expressed optimism about the team's potential, stating that its "best ball can still be well ahead of us" and that they are not yet close to their ceiling.
The pivotal victory places Kansas (19-5, 9-2) just one game behind both Houston and Arizona in the competitive Big 12 standings.