NCAAB · Final

Arizona Wildcats Edge BYU Cougars in Close Contest

Monday, January 26, 2026, 9:00 PM ET · Marriott Center

Arizona Wildcats 86, BYU Cougars 83, final. Our NCAAB picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.

Next free pick (not the main pick)

The next free pick, for your email

Team, bet, price and the hash it was sealed under, on this page the moment you send. Lose or win, it stays public.

Unlock today's pick in Telegram →

or by email

Public record of the main pick, losses included: 115 won, 44 lost. See every pick

One free pick a day by email until you unsubscribe, in one click. 21+.

Get the daily free pick · See plans

Quick answers

Who won Arizona Wildcats vs BYU Cougars?

Arizona Wildcats beat BYU Cougars 86-83 at Marriott Center on January 26, 2026.

Who was favored in Arizona Wildcats vs BYU Cougars?

Arizona Wildcats were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -122 (about 55% implied). The favorite won.

In a thrilling matchup at the Marriott Center, the Arizona Wildcats narrowly defeated the BYU Cougars with a final score of 86-83. This game was significant as it showcased the Wildcats' perfect away record of 21-0 against the Cougars, who held a strong home record of 17-3. The contest was marked by intense competition, with both teams demonstrating their offensive prowess throughout the game.

The Cougars entered the game with a solid recent form, boasting a record of 9-1 in their last ten outings, including a victory against the Utah Utes just days prior, where they scored 91 points. They had been averaging 90.1 points scored and allowing 72.3 points in their last ten games, indicating a high-scoring style of play. At home, BYU maintained an unbeaten record of 7-0 this season, further emphasizing their strength on their home court.

On the other hand, Arizona came into the game with an impressive 10-game winning streak, having not lost a game all season. Their recent form included a commanding win over the West Virginia Mountaineers, where they won 88-53. The Wildcats averaged 89.6 points scored and allowed 67.7 points during their last ten games, demonstrating their ability to both score and defend effectively. Arizona's away record of 3-0 highlighted their capability to perform well in hostile environments.

Historically, the two teams had met twice in the previous season, with each team winning one game. Arizona won their last encounter on February 23, 2025, by a single point, 96-95, while BYU had previously defeated Arizona 85-74 at home. This matchup added another chapter to their competitive rivalry.

In terms of injuries, the block did not provide specific details, but both teams have been relatively healthy, allowing them to field their strongest lineups. The absence of key players can often shift the balance in such closely contested games, making the health of the rosters critical.

The betting market reflected the competitiveness of the matchup, with DraftKings setting the odds at Arizona -1.5, indicating a close contest expected by oddsmakers. The total points line was set at 166.5, suggesting a high-scoring game was anticipated.

The game conditions were typical for a late January evening, with a lively atmosphere in the Marriott Center as fans rallied behind their teams. This environment often fuels players' performances, and both teams capitalized on the energy of the crowd.

Viewers were treated to a back-and-forth battle in the second half, where scoring plays included a layup by Keba Keita that brought Arizona to 83 points, followed by key free throws from AJ Dybantsa and Brayden Burries that helped seal the victory for the Wildcats. The final moments were tense, with BYU fighting hard to close the gap but ultimately falling short.

Arizona's victory not only maintained their unbeaten record but also highlighted their resilience and ability to perform under pressure, while BYU will look to regroup and continue their strong home performance moving forward.

Odds

Book	Spread	Total	Moneyline
DraftKings	ARIZ -1.5	166.5 o -115 / u -105	Arizona Wildcats -122 · BYU Cougars +102

What these prices pay on $100 · What these numbers mean

Leaders

PointsAJ Dybantsa24BYU Cougars
AssistsAJ Dybantsa5BYU Cougars
ReboundsRichie Saunders9BYU Cougars
PointsBrayden Burries29Arizona Wildcats
AssistsBrayden Burries4Arizona Wildcats
ReboundsMotiejus Krivas8Arizona Wildcats

Recent form

BYU Cougars

Last 10: 9-1Streak W190.1 scored · 72.3 allowed per game7-0 at home

W91-78vs Utah UtesJan 24
L71-84at Texas Tech Red RaidersJan 18
W76-70vs TCU Horned FrogsJan 15
W89-84at Utah UtesJan 11
W104-76vs Arizona State Sun DevilsJan 8
W83-73at Kansas State WildcatsJan 3
W109-81vs Eastern Washington EaglesDec 23
W85-67vs Abilene Christian WildcatsDec 20
W93-57vs Pacific TigersDec 17
W100-53vs UC Riverside HighlandersDec 14