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Arizona Wildcats Advance to Sweet 16, Defeat Utah State 78-66

3/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

In the NCAA Tournament second round on March 22, 2026, the Arizona Wildcats beat the Utah State Aggies 78-66.
Arizona dominated the boards, out-rebounding Utah State 54-26, with Motiejus Krivas grabbing 14 rebounds.
Jaden Bradley scored 18 points, including crucial second-half baskets that sustained the lead.
The Wildcats advance to the Sweet 16 for the third consecutive year and will face No. 4 Arkansas.

History

Historical Context

The 1985 NCAA Tournament saw Villanova, an eighth seed, achieve a historic upset by defeating defending champions Georgetown 66-64, marking the first time a No. 8 seed won the championship. This game, noted for Villanova's remarkable 78.6% shooting, reshaped college basketball dynamics, influencing recruitment strategies and highlighting the tournament's competitive parity, as seen in Arizona's recent Sweet 16 success.

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Story summary

In the NCAA Tournament second round on March 22, 2026, the Arizona Wildcats beat the Utah State Aggies 78-66.
Arizona dominated the boards, out-rebounding Utah State 54-26, with Motiejus Krivas grabbing 14 rebounds.
Jaden Bradley scored 18 points, including crucial second-half baskets that sustained the lead.
The Wildcats advance to the Sweet 16 for the third consecutive year and will face No. 4 Arkansas.

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