- This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Arizona (20-0) vs BYU (17-2)
- When: Jan 26 2026, 9:00 PM
- Where: Marriott Center, Provo, UT, USA
- Where to watch: ESPN
(1) Arizona vs (13) BYU Preview & Prediction
Spread: Arizona -1.0
Moneyline: Arizona (-120)
Total: 165.5
Arizona Wildcats Betting Breakdown
Arizona heads into Provo carrying the target that comes with being undefeated and ranked at the top of the national picture. The Wildcats have been dominant on both ends of the floor, blowing teams out with pace, depth, and defensive pressure that rarely lets opponents breathe.
What separates Arizona is balance. They score in waves, defend without fouling, and force teams into long stretches of uncomfortable offense. Fresh legs and fearless shot making have fueled their run through conference play, and road environments have not slowed them down. Arizona’s ability to jump on teams early has been a major factor in covering short spreads away from home.
Defensively, Arizona limits second chances and closes out shooters well. That discipline will be tested here, but the Wildcats’ experience handling hostile crowds gives them confidence. From a betting standpoint, Arizona laying a small number makes sense given their consistency and ability to respond when games tighten late.
Arizona Player Prop Pick: Koa Peat over points – Peat continues to grow in offensive responsibility and has shown confidence attacking in big moments.
BYU Cougars Betting Breakdown
BYU enters this matchup with momentum and belief, fresh off a statement win that showcased its offensive ceiling. The Cougars thrive when the tempo increases and the crowd gets involved, and home court in Provo has been a real advantage this season.
The Cougars are at their best when they spread the floor and let their scorers attack mismatches. Recent performances have shown how dangerous BYU can be when shots start falling early. The challenge is sustaining that energy for forty minutes against an opponent that punishes mistakes.
Defensively, BYU has improved, but lapses still appear against elite teams. Against Arizona, every possession matters. If the Cougars can avoid extended scoring droughts and protect the ball, they have a real chance to make this game uncomfortable late.
From a wagering perspective, BYU catching points at home is appealing, especially given recent success against top competition in this building.
BYU Player Prop Pick: AJ Dybantsa over points – Dybantsa has the green light and thrives in high profile games where usage and shot volume spike.
Expert Final Score Prediction
Arizona is favored by 1.0, with the total set at 165.5.
This matchup has shootout potential, but Arizona’s defensive consistency gives them the edge. Expect BYU to make multiple runs behind its crowd, but Arizona’s poise and depth should show in the final minutes.
The spread favors Arizona in a tight road win, while the total leans under as execution tightens late
Final Score: Arizona 84, BYU 80
Lean: Arizona -1.0
Total: Under 165.5
- NCAAB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
