Jaden Bradley’s Heroics Propel No. 2 Arizona Past Iowa State in Big 12 Semifinals

Jaden Bradley delivered in the clutch Friday night, hitting a game-winning basket to give the No. 2 Arizona Wildcats a 15-point, seven-assist effort in their 2026 Big 12 Tournament semifinal victory over the No. 7 Iowa State Cyclones. The mid-range jumper, taken from the right side of the court with seconds remaining, secured Arizona’s path to the conference championship game and highlighted Bradley’s emergence as one of college basketball’s premier young talents.

Bradley is in his fourth collegiate season, having spent his freshman year at Alabama before transferring to Arizona in 2023. Since joining the Wildcats, he has become a cornerstone for head coach Tommy Lloyd, consistently providing leadership and clutch scoring at critical moments. Friday’s heroics against Iowa State only reinforced his status as a reliable playmaker in high-pressure situations.

This season has been Bradley’s best to date, earning him Big 12 Player of the Year honors. His performance has been instrumental in Arizona’s 31-2 record, demonstrating his ability to influence games on both ends of the floor. The game-winner on Friday further cements his reputation as a player who can take over when it matters most.

Arizona’s victory over Iowa State also highlighted the team’s balanced scoring, with four players finishing in double figures. Bradley’s game-winner was the latest example of how the Wildcats are positioned to compete for a national title, combining talent, depth, and poise under pressure.

1. Balanced Scoring Leads the Way

The Wildcats relied on a team effort to overcome the Cyclones, with four players scoring in double digits. Bradley led the way with 15 points, seven assists, two rebounds, two steals, and a block, showcasing his all-around contributions. Anthony Dell’Orso carried the offensive load with 26 points and five rebounds, while Ivan Kharchenkov added 17 points and five assists. Tobe Awaka rounded out the double-digit scorers with a double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds. Arizona’s offensive balance allowed them to maintain a steady attack throughout the contest. Multiple scoring threats made it difficult for Iowa State to focus on any single player, creating opportunities for open looks and key late-game possessions. The Wildcats’ depth has been a defining factor this season, enabling them to execute Lloyd’s system at a high level for all 40 minutes. Bradley’s ability to create his own shot, facilitate teammates, and contribute defensively underscores why Arizona has been so dominant in the Big 12. With the win, Arizona extended its overall record to 31-2 and a 16-2 mark in conference play. Their consistent performance throughout the season earned them the Big 12 regular-season title and a first-round bye in the conference tournament, giving them a favorable path to the championship game.

2. Bradley’s Rising Star

Bradley’s performance against Iowa State is a reflection of his growth into one of the nation’s elite young players. Since transferring to Arizona, he has steadily developed his scoring, playmaking, and defensive skills, becoming a go-to option for critical moments. The Big 12 Player of the Year has shown an ability to remain calm under pressure, a trait that was evident with his game-winning jumper. Bradley’s poise allows him to make smart decisions in tight situations, giving Arizona a reliable option when games hang in the balance. Throughout the season, Bradley has consistently contributed across the stat sheet, providing scoring, assists, and defensive presence. His leadership extends beyond the numbers, as his confidence in late-game scenarios sets the tone for his teammates. Friday’s semifinal performance is the latest example of why Bradley is considered one of the top young players in college basketball. His clutch play not only secured the victory but also gave Arizona the momentum and confidence to advance to the Big 12 title game.

3. Looking Ahead to the Big 12 Championship

With the win over Iowa State, Arizona is now set to face the No. 5 Houston Cougars in the Big 12 championship game on March 14 at 6 p.m. ET. The Wildcats will enter the matchup riding an eight-game winning streak, showcasing both consistency and resilience. Houston presents a different challenge, with a team built on athleticism, defensive intensity, and balanced scoring. Arizona will rely on its depth, versatility, and Bradley’s leadership to navigate the high-stakes contest. Tommy Lloyd’s squad will need to continue executing at a high level, emphasizing ball movement, smart shot selection, and disciplined defense. Bradley’s ability to make clutch plays will again be a key factor in determining whether Arizona can claim the conference crown. The Wildcats’ season-long dominance, combined with Bradley’s rising star power, positions them as one of the most formidable teams in college basketball heading into the NCAA Tournament. Their performance in the Big 12 championship game will serve as a strong indicator of their potential to compete for a national title.