The Wildcats continue perfect season with Big 12 matchup victory in Orlando.
From the opening jump ball and aggressive UCF basketball team knew they had their hands full. Undefeated Wildcats had come to town and hungry to stay atop the college basketball world.
The UCF Knights came out motivated and with aggression, led by senior Themus Fulks. He delivered the best performance of his career in this game, 30 points and 18 of which came in the first half.
Fulks was able to keep his team within striking distance for most the game.
Staying consistent throughout the season and showing why they are number one in the country, the Arizona Wildcats dictate the pace in most matchups.
Arizona's offense was very efficient and well balanced all game, controlling most possessions and never allowing the Knights to get ahead.
Jaden Bradley for the Wildcats was able to get to the foul line with his aggressive attack in the paint. Bradley shot 11-for-13 from the line, scoring a total of 23 points on the night.
Maintaining the tempo for the Wildcats was also veteran forward Brayden Burries, scoring 18 points and very smart ball movement.
Center Motiejus Krivas had a dominating performance in the paint putting up a double-double of 17 points and 12 rebounds. In key moments where the Wildcats needed second chance points and momentum swings, Krivas was in the paint controlling the boards.
At the end of the first half the competitive matchup showed on the scoreboard, Arizona only leading 41-38 at halftime.
There was never a moment where it felt the Knights were completely out of it, staying within striking distance, contesting shots and forcing the Wildcats to defend on every possession.
Similar to other teams that have a strong showing in the first half against Arizona, the UCF Knights struggled to maintain a close game as the match went on.
Competing a full two halves has been nearly impossible against this deep, consistent and efficient lineup of the Arizona Wildcats.
As the second half went on the Wildcats broke away, going on an 8-0 run.
Forcing the Knights to play catch up for the rest of the game, with Arizona's defense tightening up as the game went on made it nearly impossible to make a comeback.
Giving the Knights credit as they did claw back to within six points of the number one team in the country.
Arizona ended up winning what is being said as their toughest win of the season up to this point.
Wildcats 84 Knights 77