San Diego State Aztecs vs Arizona Wildcats Picks & Predictions for Saturday December 20 2025

By: Kim Smith Published 12/20/2025, 02:20 AM ET
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The San Diego State Aztecs square off with the No. 1 Arizona Wildcats on Saturday, December 20, 2025, in a marquee late-night showdown at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Tipoff is scheduled for 10:30 PM ET, with national coverage on ESPN2. This game pits a disciplined, veteran San Diego State squad against the top-ranked team in the nation, an Arizona group that has been dominant on both ends of the floor through the first month of the season. If you’re looking for more angles on games like this one, be sure to check out free college basketball picks throughout the season.

San Diego State Aztecs Preview: Tough, Tested, and Battle-Hardened

San Diego State comes in at 6–3 overall, riding a three-game winning streak after taking care of Air Force, Lamar, and Utah Valley. The Aztecs have already tested themselves against high-level competition this season, including wins over Oregon and a competitive loss against Baylor, showing they are not intimidated by elite opponents.

From a statistical standpoint, SDSU averages 81.8 points per game while allowing 74.4, numbers that reflect a team comfortable playing at a controlled but efficient pace. The Aztecs shoot 48% from the field, move the ball well (17.1 assists per game), and bring consistent defensive pressure with 8.3 steals and 4.7 blocks per contest. That defensive activity is key, especially against teams that want to push tempo.

Offensively, BJ Davis leads the way with 13.3 PPG, pairing steady shooting (47.2% FG) with elite free-throw efficiency (94.7% FT). While SDSU doesn’t rely on one high-volume scorer, Davis’ ability to convert in key moments keeps defenses honest and helps the Aztecs maintain offensive balance.

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Arizona Wildcats Preview: The Nation’s No. 1 Juggernaut

Arizona enters this matchup undefeated at 10–0, riding a 10-game winning streak and holding the No. 1 ranking in the country for good reason. The Wildcats have not just beaten opponents — they’ve overwhelmed them, including statement wins over Alabama (96–75) and Auburn (97–68).

Statistically, Arizona has been elite across the board. They average 90.0 points per game while allowing just 67.4, one of the best point differentials in the nation. The Wildcats shoot an outstanding 53% from the field, dominate the glass with 42.8 rebounds per game, and distribute efficiently with 19.0 assists per contest. Defensively, Arizona remains aggressive, posting 8.9 steals and 4.2 blocks per game, allowing them to turn defense into instant offense.

Leading the charge is Koa Peat, who averages 14.3 PPG on an extremely efficient 55.7% shooting. While Peat is the statistical leader, Arizona’s real strength lies in its depth and balance — multiple players can score, rebound, and defend at a high level, making it difficult for opponents to key in on any single option.

Key Points to Watch For

  • Efficiency Gap: Arizona shoots 53% as a team compared to SDSU’s 48%, a meaningful difference over 40 minutes
  • Rebounding Advantage: Wildcats average nearly 8 more rebounds per game, which can create second-chance points
  • Tempo Control: SDSU wants a half-court game; Arizona thrives in transition
  • Defensive Pressure: Both teams generate steals, but Arizona converts them into points more consistently
  • Strength of Momentum: Arizona is unbeaten and crushing ranked opponents, while SDSU has not faced a team playing at this level of efficiency

San Diego State vs Arizona Pick

Best Bet: Arizona Wildcats to Cover the Spread

I’m backing Arizona here because every measurable edge points in their direction. The Wildcats are scoring over 8 points more per game, allowing 7 fewer, shooting significantly better, and rebounding at a far higher rate. Against elite opponents like Alabama and Auburn, Arizona didn’t just win — they dominated, and that matters when evaluating whether they can separate from a solid team like San Diego State.

Lean Pick: Over the Total

Arizona games trend upward in scoring due to pace and efficiency, and San Diego State is capable of contributing offensively if forced to play faster than preferred. Arizona’s ability to score in bunches can push this game beyond the expected range, even if SDSU tries to slow things down.

Arizona’s depth, rebounding, and shooting efficiency should wear down the Aztecs as the game progresses, especially in the second half when Arizona has consistently pulled away from quality competition. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for Arizona with the Thrillz promo code. Make the most of your bets on San Diego State by using the sportsbook promos.  Make sure when you place your San Diego State vs Arizona bet you are using the bet365 bonus code.

Final Score Prediction

Arizona Wildcats 92, San Diego State Aztecs 76

The No. 1 team in the country continues its dominant run, covering comfortably while reinforcing why Arizona currently sits atop college basketball.

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