The Arizona Wildcats (30-2) have advanced to the semi-finals of the Big 12 tournament with a decisive victory over Johnny Dawkins’ UCF team, 81-59. The Cats controlled the tempo from tip-off and will now face Iowa State as a reward for their victory. Arizona was led by big performances from Brayden Burries and the front court.
The Wildcats moved to 10-2 under Tommy Lloyd in conference tournaments. That is the most wins among all major conference schools since the start of the 2021-22 season.
Burries, Burries, Burries.
There are no more words to describe Brayden Burries’ emergence this season for Arizona. His consistently high level of play has begun to earn him respect from college and professional basketball analysts alike. Burries’ transition proficiency is his superpower and it was flexed in this game.
Burries contributed 21 points, three rebounds, zero turnovers and two steals. He was also entrusted to “run the show” a lot in this game, showing the team and staff clearly trust Burries to facilitate all offense at this point in the season.
His defensive improvement is clear. More specifically, his help defense IQ continues to grow and show itself in his theft of any lazy passes.
If the San Bernardino product continues to play his brand of basketball, he could become the steal of the NBA draft in a loaded class.
Arizona Front court Trio Terrorizes Teams
The Cats supersized front court took full advantage of going up against an undersized UCF team. Motiejus Krivas and Tobe Awaka were rebounding machines, combining for 22 total rebounds. That duo also pitched in 21 points and six steals and blocks.
The Wildcats and UCF had a virtually even the rebounding battle in their first matchup. Arizona out-rebounded the Knights 44-36.
Krivas and Awaka were seemingly getting every rebound but Koa Peat continues to contribute to the front court with his brand of hoop. Peat is an offensive hub for this team. Teams are forced to send a double his way, opening up avenues for him to create for teammates. Defensively, Peat’s physciality and athleticism make him the perfect forward to pair with a big like Krivas.
Arizona will need domination from this trio if the Cats want to cut down nets in April.
Court Causing Controversy
The new court for this year’s Big 12 tournament has drawn a ton of attention from fans. The glass surface has been the talk of the tournament which is a shame considering how high the level of basketball has been in this tournament.
It is undeniable however, that this court is striking anxiety into every fan watching their team take to the new court.
The court has been noted as warmer than usual and more slippery by players. Coaches such as Tommy Lloyd seemingly do not care. Lloyd was asked for his opinion on the court and responded by saying Arizona will play on any surface under any circumstances.
Who’s Next?
Arizona will face Iowa State in the Big 12 tournament semi-finals in a Final Four quality matchup. TJ Otzelberger’s team has been dominating the competition, coming into their matchup with Arizona with a +71 point differential.
Iowa State embarrased Bobby Hurley and Arizona State before picking apart a wounded but dogged Texas Tech.
The last time Arizona faced the Cylcones, Arizona secured the Big 12 regular season championship in dominant fashion, 73-57.
Will history repeat itself? For more on this matchup and any upcoming Arizona game, tune into the AZ Wildcats Podcast with Damon Fairall and Kevin Thomas.
