Iowa State Cyclones vs Arizona Wildcats Prediction, Odds and Picks for Today, 03/13/26

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Fifth-seeded Iowa State will look to pull off an upset in the Big 12 tournament as they get ready to take on #1 Arizona. These teams met back on March 2nd, when Arizona dominated in a 73-57 victory, holding the Cyclones to just 29.2% shooting and out-rebounding them 40 to 33. Arizona has been one of the best teams in college basketball this season; the Wildcats led the Big 12 in scoring, averaging 86.5 points per game, compared to Iowa State’s 81.8. Defensively, however, the Cyclones hold a slight edge. Iowa State allowed just 64.6 points per game this season — while Arizona gave up 68.3. 

Since their loss to Arizona, Iowa State regained its form, winning its last 3 games, including a win over a strong Texas Tech team. In this matchup, the Cyclones will need to find a way to limit the Wildcats’ ability to rebound the ball. Arizona averages 45.9 rebounds per game compared to Iowa State’s 38.8. Moreover, Arizona has one of the most efficient offenses in the Big 12 this season, which will make it tough for Iowa State to keep pace. With the Wildcats well-rested heading into this game and the Cyclones coming off back-to-back games, fatigue could be an issue for Iowa State as the game progresses. Look for Arizona to push the pace early and test Iowa State’s defense. While the Cyclones may be able to keep things close at first, the Wildcats’ depth and extra rest should allow them to pull away as the game goes on. 

Iowa State vs Arizona prediction: Arizona -4 (-115) available at time of publishing. Playable at that number.