No. 9 Kansas delivered a stunning upset by defeating top-ranked Arizona 82-78 on Monday night, ending the Wildcats’ perfect season despite playing without freshman star Darryn Peterson. The victory, fueled by standout performances from Flory Bidunga and Melvin Council Jr., showcased Kansas’ resilience and defensive prowess in a highly anticipated matchup at Allen Fieldhouse.
In a thrilling contest that captivated college basketball fans, Kansas overcame an 11-point second-half deficit to secure the win. The Jayhawks, ranked ninth nationally, were without Darryn Peterson, the projected No. 1 NBA draft pick, who missed the game due to flu-like symptoms. Despite his absence, Kansas relied on a balanced offensive attack, with Flory Bidunga posting a double-double of 23 points and 10 rebounds, while Melvin Council Jr. added 23 points and key late-game plays. Bryson Tiller contributed 18 points, helping to fill the scoring void left by Peterson.
Arizona, which had entered the game as the unanimous No. 1 team with a dominant season record, struggled to maintain its early momentum. The Wildcats were led by their size advantage, particularly from center Motiejus Krivas, but Kansas adjusted defensively in the second half. Bidunga’s rim protection proved crucial, including a game-sealing block on Arizona freshman Brayden Burries in the final minute, which preserved a narrow lead for the Jayhawks.
The atmosphere at Allen Fieldhouse was electric, with the sellout crowd reaching noise levels over 118 decibels, comparable to a jet engine. Kansas coach Bill Self credited the fans for providing an energy boost, noting that the team fed off the relentless support. Self, who celebrated emotionally after the win, emphasized that this victory was a testament to his team’s growth and aggression, especially in Peterson’s absence.
Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd praised Kansas’ performance, urging respect for the Jayhawks rather than focusing on Peterson’s absence. ‘Kansas is a hell of a team,’ Lloyd said, highlighting their ability to beat the top-ranked team at home. The loss marked Arizona’s first defeat since March 2025, ending a significant winning streak and raising questions about their invincibility this season.
For Kansas, the win represents a major statement in the Big 12 conference race, pulling them within one game of leaders Houston and Arizona. Self expressed optimism about his team’s ceiling, suggesting that their best basketball is still ahead. The Jayhawks have shown improved defense in recent weeks, ranking among the top in college basketball, which was key in containing Arizona’s high-powered offense.
The game’s outcome has implications for NCAA tournament seeding and the national championship landscape. With Peterson expected to return, Kansas could emerge as a stronger contender, while Arizona will look to rebound and maintain its top ranking. Both teams are set to face challenging schedules ahead, making this upset a potential turning point in the season.
Overall, Kansas’ victory underscores the unpredictability of college basketball and the importance of team depth. It serves as a reminder that even without star players, disciplined defense and collective effort can overcome top-tier opponents, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the season.
