BYU Shocks Arizona with Controversial Last-Second Foul Call
Arizona seemed to have the game in hand, but a controversial call by the officials changed everything.
In a thrilling “Big 12 after dark” college basketball matchup between the Arizona Wildcats and BYU Cougars on Saturday night, the game ended on a disputed decision. Trailing 94-93 with less than 4 seconds remaining, BYU forward Richie Saunders attempted a desperate, off-balance four-foot shot in the lane. The ball missed badly and landed in the hands of Arizona forward Tobe Awaka just as the buzzer sounded. It appeared the game was over.
However, lead official Tony Padilla, who was positioned near halfcourt, called a foul on Arizona forward Trey Townsend, sending Saunders to the free throw line with just over 3 seconds left. Saunders made both free throws, securing a shocking 95-94 victory for BYU.
After the game, Arizona’s coaches, players, and fans were furious with Padilla’s decision, and rightfully so. Despite an excellent game, Padilla’s call ultimately determined the outcome, even though the official who had the clearest view of the play, positioned on the baseline, did not make the call.
The play in question showed that Saunders initiated the contact while Townsend maintained a legal, vertical guarding position. It seemed more like a flop, at best, making the call all the more perplexing given Padilla’s position.
As a result, Arizona’s loss severely hampers their hopes of competing for the Big 12 title, dropping them three games behind Houston with just four games remaining. More concerning for Arizona is that BYU is now only two games behind them for the fourth seed in the Big 12 Tournament, with the top four seeds earning a bye into the quarterfinals.
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