Saturday, December 20, felt like one of those days where you could flip on a game at almost any hour and find something worth watching.
Saturday Had Everything: Close Calls, Blowouts, and Statement Wins Across College Basketball
Ranked matchups, neutral-site showdowns, and a few teams reminding everyone why December games still matter just as much as March ones. Some favorites cruised, a couple had to sweat it out, and one top-ranked team finally ran into trouble.
Arizona Locks Teams Down and Keeps Rolling
Arizona Wildcats stayed perfect by grinding out a 68–45 win over San Diego State Aztecs. This was not a highlight-reel game, but it was very Arizona. The Wildcats turned the second half into a defensive clinic, holding the Aztecs to just 18 points after the break. It felt like every possession was a chore for San Diego State. Arizona did not need big scoring nights, just effort, rebounding, and discipline, and that continues to be the mark of a team that knows exactly who it is.
Texas Tech Wins a Classic, Duke Takes Its First Hit
If you wanted drama, Texas Tech Red Raiders and Duke Blue Devils delivered it. Texas Tech escaped with an 82–81 win, handing Duke its first loss of the season. The Red Raiders’ Chris Anderson was the difference, pouring in 27 points and making every big play late. Duke had answers most of the night, including a strong all-around effort from Cooper Boozer, but Texas Tech’s toughness showed when it mattered most. This was one of those losses Duke can learn from, while Texas Tech walked away with a resume-changing win.
Purdue Sends a Message Against Auburn
Purdue Boilermakers did more than just beat Auburn Tigers. The Boilermakers dominated them, winning 88–60 and turning a ranked matchup into a runaway. Purdue controlled the paint, shared the ball, and never let Auburn get comfortable. Auburn had an individual scoring bright spot, from Kevin Overton with 22, but as a team, the Tigers could not keep up with Purdue’s pace or physicality. This felt like one of those games people will point to later and say, “That’s when Purdue showed everyone.”
Houston Outlasts Arkansas in a Physical Battle
Houston Cougars earned a hard-nosed 94–85 win over Arkansas Razorbacks in a game that looked and felt like March basketball. Houston’s Kordell Flemings led the way with 21 points, while Arkansas got a big night from DJ Wagner, who finished with 27 points and kept the Razorbacks within striking distance. Every run was answered, every mistake punished. Houston’s ability to close late continues to separate the Cougars from most of the field.
Michigan State Pulls Away Late
Michigan State Spartans handled Oakland Golden Grizzlies 79–70, but it was closer than the final score suggests. Oakland stayed competitive early, riding an 18-point performance from their leading scorer, Tuburu Naivaluara. Michigan State’s depth and experience eventually took over, with the Spartans getting 22 points from Coen Carr. It was not flashy, but it was a solid, professional-type win.
Louisville Cruises in One of the Day’s Biggest Blowouts
Louisville Cardinals made quick work of Montana Grizzlies, rolling to a 94–54 victory. Louisville was up big early and never looked back. Montana got 15 points from its top scorer, but the Cardinals’ pace and depth overwhelmed the Grizzlies from the opening tip. Games like this may not grab headlines, but they help teams build rhythm and confidence.
North Carolina Survives a Scare From Ohio State
North Carolina Tar Heels survived a thriller, edging Ohio State Buckeyes 71–70 in the CBS Sports Classic. North Carolina leaned on a huge night inside, with Caleb Wilson posting 20 points and 15 rebounds. Ohio State got 18 points from Devin Royal and had chances late, but the Tar Heels made just enough plays to escape. This was one of those games where both teams walk away feeling battle-tested.
Kentucky Takes Over After Halftime
Kentucky Wildcats turned things on after the break to beat St. John's Red Storm 78–66. Kentucky guard Otega Oweh led the way with 20 points and came up with timely steals that flipped momentum. St. John’s hung around early, but Kentucky’s defense and transition game took control in the second half. It was one of the Wildcats’ more complete performances of the season.
Virginia Wins the Way Virginia Always Does
Virginia Cavaliers used patience and execution to pull away from Maryland Terrapins, winning 80–72. Maryland had a strong second-half push, led by a 15-point effort from David Coit, but Virginia stayed composed. A 20-point night from Dallin Hall helped keep control. This game felt familiar to anyone who has watched Virginia over the years.
The Big Picture on Saturday
Saturday was not about chaos. It was about separation. Teams like Arizona, Purdue, and Houston looked every bit like contenders. Texas Tech made a loud statement. Duke and Ohio State lost, but neither looked exposed.
Have a very Merry Christmas!