ORLANDO — The UCF Knights went toe-to-toe with the nation’s top-ranked team Saturday night at Addition Financial Arena, but a late push fell short as No. 1 Arizona held on for an 84–77 victory in a Big 12 showdown.
UCF guard Themus Fulks delivered a standout performance, scoring a career-high 30 points to lead all players. Fulks added eight assists and five rebounds while carrying the Knights offensively through long stretches of the game before fouling out in the closing minutes.
Arizona entered the contest undefeated and showed why, building an early lead and answering each UCF surge with timely baskets. The Wildcats were led by Jaden Bradley, who finished with 23 points, while Brayden Burries contributed 18. Motiejus Krivas added a strong inside presence with 17 points and 12 rebounds.
After falling behind by double digits in the first half, UCF found its rhythm late. Jordan Burks sparked a key run that helped the Knights trim the deficit to just three points heading into halftime, shifting momentum and energizing the home crowd.
The second half featured multiple swings, with UCF repeatedly cutting the margin into single digits and threatening to pull even. However, foul trouble and Arizona’s efficiency at the free-throw line down the stretch prevented the Knights from completing the comeback.
Despite the loss, UCF showed resilience and competitiveness against the nation’s top team, finishing the night at 14–3 overall and 3–2 in Big 12 play. Arizona remained unbeaten on the season.
The Knights now prepare for another major test as they head back on the road to face No. 2 Iowa State in their next outing.
