Arizona vs Houston

Houston's run through the South was heroic — beating Illinois and Florida back to back. But they've now played two straight elite-level grinders and their legs are heavy. Arizona has cruised through the weakest region with no overtime wars or emotional revenge games. They arrive fresh, balanced, and the deepest team in the country. Houston's defense is elite, but Arizona has five double-digit scorers — when Houston collapses on the post, Arizona kicks to open shooters. When they chase shooters, Burries and Bradley attack the rim. Houston keeps it tight for 30 minutes through sheer defensive will. But Arizona's depth wears them down in the final 10 minutes. Tired legs mean missed rotations, and Arizona makes them pay. The Wildcats win their first national championship since 1997.