Tempe, AZ, January 30, 2026
The top-ranked Arizona Wildcats are set to challenge their rival Arizona State this Saturday, striving to achieve the best start in program history at 21-0. This matchup highlights the competitive spirit of college basketball and emphasizes the importance of athletics in community cohesion and local economies. With their impressive record, the Wildcats look to tie the record for their longest winning streak and further establish their dominance in the sport amidst a passionate rivalry that benefits Arizona’s economy.
Phoenix, AZ —
Wildcats Chase History in Tempe Showdown
No. 1 ranked Arizona will travel to rival Arizona State this Saturday, vying to achieve the best start in program history and match their longest winning streak. This highly anticipated matchup not only highlights the competitive spirit of college athletics but also underscores the significant role such events play in uniting communities and stimulating the local economy across the Grand Canyon State.
The pursuit of excellence on the basketball court by the Wildcats, currently undefeated at 21-0, reflects the dedication and disciplined initiative fostered within top-tier athletic programs. Their performance is a testament to the rigorous preparation and strategic development that elevate individual talent into cohesive team success, captivating fans and generating substantial interest throughout Arizona.
The Historic Pursuit on the Hardwood
Program Records and Rivalry
The No. 1 Arizona Wildcats men’s basketball team, with an impressive 21-0 overall record and an 8-0 record in the Big 12, stands on the brink of etching new milestones into the program’s storied history. A victory against Arizona State would not only secure the best start in program history, matching the 2013-14 team’s 21-0 run, but also tie the school’s longest winning streak of 22 games, a record that dates back to the 1914-1917 seasons.
Under Coach Tommy Lloyd, Arizona has demonstrated a commanding presence, particularly against ranked opponents, holding a 27-13 record since the 2021-22 season. The Wildcats secured a recent 86-83 victory over No. 13 BYU, a game that saw strong performances from Brayden Burries with 29 points and Jaden Bradley with 26 points. Brayden Burries, a freshman from the Phoenix area, has significantly improved his scoring, averaging 20.4 points in the four games following the initial matchup with Arizona State this season.
The rivalry between the University of Arizona and Arizona State University is a deeply rooted tradition, with Arizona holding a historical advantage in the series with a 164-87 all-time record. The first game between these two sides occurred in 1913. Coach Lloyd’s record against Arizona State is 9-1, while Arizona State Head Coach Bobby Hurley holds a 4-18 record against Arizona.
Arizona State enters the contest with an 11-10 overall record and a 2-6 conference record, having lost four of their last five games, including a recent 79-76 defeat at UCF. In a previous encounter this season on January 14, Arizona defeated Arizona State 89-82 in Tucson.
Economic Impact of State Athletics
Fueling Local Economies Through Competition
College athletics, particularly high-profile matchups like the Arizona-Arizona State rivalry, serve as significant economic drivers for the state of Arizona. The presence of these events draws in substantial numbers of local and out-of-state visitors, directly benefiting local businesses, especially within the hospitality and retail sectors.
University of Arizona Athletics alone generated an estimated $265 million in economic output for the state of Arizona in the 2022-2023 season. This includes over $130 million in visitor spending for Pima County. Local residents contributed approximately $64 million, while out-of-state visitors spent more than $45 million attending athletic events. These expenditures cover retail shopping, food and beverage purchases, transportation, and lodging, creating a ripple effect throughout the economy and supporting numerous jobs.
The direct and indirect economic contributions of university sports programs like those at the University of Arizona and Arizona State University highlight the value of private investment and community engagement in fostering robust athletic scenes. The demand generated by these events underscores a free-market principle where public interest in competitive sports translates into tangible economic growth and opportunity for Arizona communities.
Cultivating Excellence Through Initiative
University Programs and Community Support
The success of athletic programs at both the University of Arizona and Arizona State University is a testament to dedicated university leadership, strategic program development, and vital community support. These institutions demonstrate how a combination of internal initiative and external private investment can elevate athletic competitiveness and provide exceptional opportunities for student-athletes.
Arizona State Head Coach Bobby Hurley has been instrumental in building the Sun Devils’ program, notably assembling a Top-10 recruiting class, which was ranked No. 9 by 247Sports and No. 8 by other national evaluators. This achievement highlights the proactive approach to talent acquisition and program enhancement.
The University of Arizona, in turn, has initiated programs such as the Saguaro Society, a philanthropic leadership program designed to support the Bear Down Blueprint and improve the student-athlete experience. This reflects a commitment to responsible growth and providing comprehensive support for athletes, balancing athletic success with academic achievement, as evidenced by their student-athletes achieving a record-setting 3.41 cumulative GPA.
Furthermore, the evolving landscape of college athletics now includes direct payments to student-athletes. Starting July 1st, colleges can share up to $20.5 million with student-athletes for the 2025-26 school year, beyond scholarships and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. The University of Arizona has developed an algorithm for distribution based on principles of competitiveness, fairness, and fiscal responsibility. This shift represents a new frontier for college sports, emphasizing the value of athlete contributions and requiring strategic financial management by universities.
The Spirit of Competition and Personal Growth
Developing Future Leaders and Athletes
College athletics serves as a powerful platform for personal development, instilling discipline, accountability, and the value of competition in young men and women. The dedication exhibited by student-athletes like Brayden Burries, who has shown significant growth in his performance, exemplifies the individual perseverance that is a cornerstone of athletic and life success.
The rigorous training schedules and academic demands faced by student-athletes require a high degree of self-reliance and initiative. Universities, through their athletic departments, aim to provide comprehensive support systems that enable students to thrive both on and off the field. This includes fostering environments where character development and competitive drive are equally prioritized, preparing individuals for future endeavors beyond their collegiate careers.
Broader Athletic Landscape in Arizona
Beyond Basketball: A State United by Sports
Beyond the excitement of collegiate basketball, Arizona’s broader athletic landscape continues to evolve, reflecting a dynamic commitment to sports excellence and community engagement. The state actively fosters a diverse array of sports, from “University of Arizona AZ athletics” to professional franchises and burgeoning youth programs. Arizona State University has recently made strategic financial decisions to benefit its baseball and softball programs, demonstrating a proactive approach to Title IX compliance and equitable sports funding. This move highlights a commitment to supporting a wide range of athletic opportunities, even if it involves reallocating funds from traditional revenue-generating sports like college football in Phoenix. Such initiatives contribute to a robust sports ecosystem that benefits communities statewide. The enduring “Phoenix AZ sports” culture, encompassing both collegiate and professional teams, underscores the state’s vibrant athletic identity and its capacity for sustained growth and competition.
The upcoming game between No. 1 Arizona and Arizona State is more than just a basketball game; it is a showcase of dedicated effort, strategic investment, and the unifying power of competition. These athletic events, fueled by the initiative of university programs and the support of the community, are vital for both the spirit and economic vitality of our state. We encourage all Arizonans to continue supporting “University of Arizona AZ athletics” and “Phoenix AZ sports” programs, recognizing their role in fostering excellence and community strength. Engage with your local teams and witness firsthand the enduring value of spirited competition and the pursuit of greatness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What historical record is No. 1 Arizona men’s basketball team attempting to achieve?
The No. 1 Arizona men’s basketball team is attempting to achieve the best start in program history and match the record for its longest winning streak.
- What is Arizona’s current record this season?
Arizona’s current record this season is 21-0 overall and 8-0 in the Big 12.
- What is Arizona State’s current record this season?
Arizona State’s current record this season is 11-10 overall and 2-6 in the Big 12.
- When was the last game between Arizona and Arizona State, and what was the result?
The last game between Arizona and Arizona State was on January 14, 2026, in Tucson, with Arizona winning 89-82.
- How much economic output does University of Arizona Athletics generate for the state?
University of Arizona Athletics accounts for about $265 million in economic output for the state of Arizona.
- What is the longest winning streak in University of Arizona program history?
The longest winning streak in University of Arizona program history is 22 games, which stretched from 1914 to 1917.
Game Day Highlights
| Team | Overall Record | Conference Record (Big 12) | Current Streak | Longest Program Winning Streak | Economic Impact (State-level) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No. 1 Arizona Wildcats | 21-0 | 8-0 | W21 | 22 games (1914-1917) | $265 Million (UArizona Athletics for the state) |
| Arizona State Sun Devils | 11-10 | 2-6 | L1 | N/A (not highlighted in context) | Significant contributor to state’s economy |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
GCU Lopes Prepare for Critical Home Game Against Boise State
Phoenix Ignites Growth in Collegiate Flag Football
Uncover More Than Expected: 11 First Friday Experiences in Downtown Phoenix
Arizona’s Girls High School Basketball Talent Rise
Arizona State University Hosts Celebrity Softball Game
Arizona Sports Hall of Fame Celebrates Class of 2025 Inductees
GCU Lopes Men’s Basketball Triumphs Over Utah State
Uncover 10 Hidden First Friday Gems in Phoenix
Yavapai College Athletics Showcase Community Engagement
University of Arizona Innovates Through Strategic Partnerships
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
