What observers say
“Arizona rallies from halftime deficit to beat Purdue, reach 1st Final Four since 2001,” a headline that encapsulates the excitement of the game. The Arizona Wildcats showcased their resilience and skill in a decisive 79-64 victory over the Purdue Boilermakers during the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Tournament, held at the SAP Center in San Jose, California.
Despite trailing 38-31 at halftime, Arizona turned the tide in the second half, outscoring Purdue 48-26. This remarkable comeback not only secured their spot in the Final Four but also marked their first appearance at this stage since 2001. The Wildcats’ overall record improved to an impressive 36-2 following this victory.
Koa Peat was a standout performer for Arizona, scoring 20 points and grabbing 7 rebounds. His performance broke the school freshman record for an Elite Eight game, previously held by Mike Bibby. Peat’s contributions were crucial in shifting the momentum in favor of the Wildcats after the break.
Purdue, which had a strong first half, held a 5-rebound advantage at halftime. However, as the game progressed, Arizona’s rebounding prowess shone through, finishing with a slight edge of 37-36 on the boards. The Boilermakers ended their season with a record of 30-9, with Braden Smith leaving a significant mark, finishing his collegiate career with an NCAA-record 1,103 assists.
Arizona’s free-throw shooting was another critical factor in their victory. The Wildcats converted 20 of their 22 attempts from the line, while Purdue managed to hit only 8 of 13. This disparity in free-throw efficiency played a significant role in the final score, showcasing Arizona’s ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
The game, which began at 7:49 p.m. CT, was broadcast on TBS and truTV, drawing attention from basketball fans across the nation. As the Wildcats celebrated their hard-fought victory, the atmosphere was electric, with fans eager to see how far their team could go in the tournament.
With their victory over Purdue, Arizona has set the stage for what promises to be an exciting Final Four. The Wildcats will look to build on their momentum and continue their quest for a national championship, while Purdue reflects on a season filled with achievements and records. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Arizona to see if they can capitalize on this historic opportunity.