The Arizona Wildcats secured a commanding victory over the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats with a final score of 107-71. This win improved the Arizona team's record to 1-0, while Bethune-Cookman's record fell to 0-1. The game was held at McKale Center, where an enthusiastic crowd of 14,378 fans witnessed an impressive performance by the home team.

Dec 22, 2025; Tucson, Arizona, USA; Arizona Wildcats guard Anthony Dell’Orso (3) makes a lay up during the first half of the game against the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats at McKale Memorial Center. Mandatory Credit: Aryanna Frank-Imagn Images

First Half

In the first half, the U of A set a strong pace with their offensive prowess. They scored 49 points against Bethune-Cookman's defense, which managed to put up only 35 points in response. Key contributions came from Brayden Burries and Ivan Kharchenkov, who displayed remarkable shooting accuracy and teamwork on the court. The Cats' defense also played a crucial role by forcing turnovers and capitalizing on fast-break opportunities.

Second Half

The second half saw Arizona extend their lead further by scoring an additional 58 points while limiting their opponents to just 36 points. Jaden Bradley's defensive efforts were notable as he recorded multiple steals that led to easy transition baskets for his team. The Cats dominated in rebounds as well, securing a total of 42 compared to Bethune-Cookman's 22.

Dec 22, 2025; Tucson, Arizona, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Tobe Awaka (30) goes up for a lay up during the first half of the game against the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats at McKale Memorial Center. Mandatory Credit: Aryanna Frank-Imagn Images

Key Performances

Brayden Burries stood out with his efficient scoring and playmaking abilities throughout the game. His performance was complemented by Ivan Kharchenkov's solid contribution both offensively and defensively. Together they helped maintain Arizona's momentum against their rivals from start to finish.

Bethune-Cookman struggled despite some bright moments from individual players who tried valiantly but couldn't match up against Arizona's cohesive unit playstyle.

Dec 22, 2025; Tucson, Arizona, USA; Bethune-Cookman Wildcats guard Dailon Minor (12) scores a jumper while Arizona Wildcats guard Anthony Dell’Orso (3) fails to block him during the first half of the game at McKale Memorial Center. Mandatory Credit: Aryanna Frank-Imagn Images

This matchup provided fans with exciting moments that will be remembered as part of this season’s highlights reel for both teams involved - making it one worth revisiting through various channels such as ESPN+ broadcasts or online recaps like this one!

Looking ahead: On December 29th at McKale Center (Tucson), catch another thrilling encounter when our beloved Cats face off against South Dakota State Jackrabbits live via ESPN+. Don't miss out; mark your calendars now! Share this article if you enjoyed reading about our latest triumph!

Arizona Wildcats - NCAA Men's Basketball - Recap

Did Arizona Wildcats' Second Half Surge Overcome Arizona State Sun Devils at Desert Financial Arena?

Did Arizona Wildcats' Defensive Prowess Seal the Deal Against BYU Cougars?

Arizona Wildcats Dominate West Virginia Mountaineers with Stellar Defense and Offensive Prowess at McKale Center

Arizona Wildcats Dominate Cincinnati Bearcats with Strong Second Half Performance

Arizona Wildcats Dominate UCF Knights with Strong Second Half Surge

Arizona Wildcats Dominate Arizona State Sun Devils with Second Half Surge at McKale Center

Arizona Wildcats Leap Over TCU Horned Frogs at Ed and Rae Schollmaier Arena

Arizona Wildcats Dominate Kansas State with Brayden Burries' Stellar Performance

Arizona Wildcats Roar Past Utah Utes with Dominant Display at Jon M. Huntsman Center

Arizona Wildcats' Offensive Surge Overwhelms South Dakota State Jackrabbits at McKale Center

Arizona Wildcats Outrun Bethune-Cookman Wildcats in High-Scoring Showdown

Arizona Wildcats Dominate San Diego State Aztecs with Second Half Surge at Mortgage Matchup Center

Did Arizona Wildcats' Fast Break Dominate Abilene Christian Wildcats at McKale Center?

Arizona Wildcats Outrun Alabama Crimson Tide in a Legacy Arena Showdown

Arizona Wildcats Dominate Auburn Tigers with Relentless Offense at McKale Center

Can Arizona Wildcats' Dominance Over Norfolk State Spartans Be Attributed to Their Stellar Defense?

Arizona Wildcats Edge Out Oregon Ducks: A Nail-Biter at Climate Pledge Arena

Arizona Wildcats Dominate Akron Zips in NCAA Post-Season Showdown at Climate Pledge Arena

Arizona Wildcats' Effort Falls Short Against Houston Cougars in Big 12 Championship

Arizona Wildcats Claw Past Texas Tech Red Raiders in a Show of Might

Arizona Wildcats Overpower Kansas Jayhawks in a Dominant Display