Arizona basketball has always been a program steeped in tradition, success, and high expectations. With a rich history of NCAA Tournament appearances, Pac-12 titles, and a loyal fanbase, each season is an opportunity for the Wildcats to make their mark. The 2024-2025 season has been no different, offering thrilling moments, jaw-dropping performances, and defining moments that will be remembered for years to come.
As the season progresses, Arizona’s journey has been shaped by several pivotal events—games, performances, and decisions that have ultimately defined the trajectory of their campaign. In this article, we take a closer look at the top five game-changing moments that helped shape the Wildcats’ season.
1. The Breakout Win Over Duke: A National Statement
It’s not every day that Arizona takes on a blue blood like Duke, and when these two powerhouses met early in the season at a neutral-site tournament, the stakes were high. Arizona entered the game with a strong roster and high expectations, but the win they secured over Duke in this high-profile matchup was more than just a regular season victory.
Led by star forward Azuolas Tubelis, Arizona dominated the game in all phases. Tubelis played a career-defining game, contributing both offensively and defensively, with 25 points and 13 rebounds. But it wasn’t just Tubelis’ performance that turned heads—Arizona’s defense was stifling, with the Wildcats limiting Duke’s typically potent offense and forcing them into uncomfortable positions.
This win was a statement to the basketball world that Arizona was a legitimate contender, not just in the Pac-12, but on the national stage. The victory bolstered their rankings and sent a clear message: Arizona was ready to challenge for top-tier honors come March. More importantly, it gave the team confidence, showcasing that they could compete with and beat some of the best programs in the nation.
2. Tubelis and the Arizona Bench Shine in the Rivalry Game Against Arizona State
No season is complete without the intensity of a rivalry game, and for Arizona, their showdown against in-state rival Arizona State was nothing short of electric. Early in the season, the Wildcats were coming off a rough patch, having dropped a few close games that questioned their consistency. The Sun Devils, led by their own star players, were feeling confident heading into the game.
But in front of a raucous crowd at the McKale Center, Arizona’s stars rose to the occasion. Azuolas Tubelis, who has had a breakout season, delivered a dazzling performance, scoring 29 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, keeping the Wildcats in control throughout the game. But what truly stood out in this contest was the emergence of Arizona’s bench players. Guard Kylan Boswell came off the bench to provide a spark, while forward Filip Borovican contributed crucial minutes in relief of the starters.
The team’s depth was a key factor in Arizona’s 84-76 victory, and the win not only helped reassert the Wildcats’ dominance in the rivalry but also marked a turning point in their season. It was a much-needed confidence booster and showcased the team’s depth, which would prove crucial in the tougher games ahead.
3. The Comeback Against UCLA: A Test of Character
A defining moment of the 2024-2025 season for Arizona was their dramatic comeback win against UCLA, one of the top teams in the Pac-12. Arizona had struggled in the first half, falling behind by as much as 18 points. UCLA’s defense was smothering, and it seemed as though the Wildcats were on the verge of a demoralizing loss.
However, Arizona showed incredible resolve in the second half, led by the steady play of point guard Courtney Ramey and the inside dominance of Tubelis. A combination of relentless defense, timely scoring, and a bit of luck allowed Arizona to claw their way back into the game. Ramey’s clutch shooting from beyond the arc and Tubelis’ relentless rebounding kept the team in the game.
But perhaps the most significant part of the comeback was Arizona’s mental toughness. While UCLA continued to apply pressure, Arizona kept their composure, executing down the stretch with precision. The game ultimately went into overtime, and in the extra period, Arizona’s poise and leadership from their veterans sealed a hard-fought 90-85 win.
This victory proved to the Wildcats and their fans that Arizona had the heart to fight through adversity and win big games in critical moments. It also highlighted the maturity of their senior leaders, who showed that they could handle the pressure of top-tier competition and stay focused when it mattered most.
4. Kerr Kriisa’s Game-Winner Against Stanford
In a tight Pac-12 matchup against Stanford, Arizona faced a challenge to their position in the standings. The game was back and forth, with neither team able to establish a clear lead for long stretches. As the clock wound down, the score was tied, and Arizona found themselves in a situation where they needed a hero to step up and deliver.
That hero turned out to be point guard Kerr Kriisa, who had struggled at times throughout the game but remained confident in his ability to take the big shot. With less than 10 seconds remaining, Kriisa dribbled to the top of the key and launched a three-pointer over the defense. The shot went in at the buzzer, and Arizona had snatched a thrilling 68-65 victory.
Kriisa’s game-winner became an iconic moment of the season, and it was a perfect reminder of how a single play can change the course of a season. This win, coupled with his clutch shot, gave Arizona a huge boost in their quest for the Pac-12 title, while Kriisa proved once again that he could be counted on when the game was on the line.
5. Arizona’s Defense Shines in the Pac-12 Tournament Championship
By the time Arizona made it to the Pac-12 Tournament Championship game, they had already solidified themselves as one of the conference’s premier teams. But it was their defense in the final against a high-powered USC offense that truly defined their season. Arizona entered the game with the confidence that they could score with anyone, but their defense was what carried them to a convincing 78-66 victory over the Trojans.
The Wildcats employed a suffocating defense throughout the game, led by Tubelis and freshman guard Kylan Boswell. Arizona’s ability to disrupt USC’s offensive flow and prevent easy baskets was key, and they limited USC to a season-low shooting percentage. On the offensive end, Tubelis and Ramey were once again outstanding, but it was the Wildcats’ defense that earned them the win and secured their first Pac-12 Tournament title since 2018.
Winning the Pac-12 Tournament was a significant moment for Arizona, not just because of the title itself, but because it showed that they could win in a variety of ways. They were no longer just a high-scoring team, but one that could grind out victories when necessary. This victory helped solidify Arizona’s status as one of the top teams in the country and built momentum heading into the NCAA Tournament.
Conclusion
Arizona basketball’s 2024-2025 season has been one to remember, with these five moments representing the very best of what the Wildcats have accomplished. Whether it was a statement win over Duke, a thrilling comeback against UCLA, or a clutch shot by Kerr Kriisa, each of these moments has defined Arizona’s journey in different ways.
As the Wildcats continue their pursuit of greatness, these pivotal events will serve as reminders of the resilience, talent, and heart of the team. No matter what lies ahead, these moments will be remembered as key turning points in one of the most exciting seasons in Arizona basketball history.
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