Arizona basketball: Arizona’s defense is a liability

The Arizona Wildcats were touted as a Final Four contender in the preseason. In order to clinch a Final Four appearance, Arizona’s defense must improve.

UCLA carved up Arizona‘s defense on Thursday night as a result of the Wildcats’ poor help defense and slow rotations. Both the perimeter and interior defense were problematic for Arizona in a 82-74 loss.

UCLA essentially put forth an offensive clinic. The Bruins made 45.8% of their three-point attempts and also scored in the paint with ease. At times, the Bruins scored so easily that it looked like they were running layup lines.

Arizona Coach Sean Miller has lamented his team’s poor defense many times this season. Miller is mixing up the defensive schemes in hopes of finding some answers. Unfortunately, he didn’t find many answers against UCLA.

All the UCLA starters scored in double figures against Arizona. Guards Aaron Holiday and Kris Wilkes constantly beat Arizona defenders off the dribble. Jaylen Hands and Gyorgy Goloman converted open three-pointers (6-8 combined). Center Thomas Welsh also had a big night for the Bruins with 11 points and 12 rebounds.

Arizona’s on-ball defense must drastically improve for it to be a serious threat in March. Additionally, the communication and help defense were almost nonexistent against UCLA. The Wildcats have the athleticism to be an elite defensive squad, yet they rank 111th on that end per KenPom.

The good news: Arizona is an excellent offensive team. The Wildcats can score with any team in the country and boast an elite inside-out combo. Guard Allonzo Trier and forward Deandre Ayton are two of college basketball’s premiere scorers.

Next: Pac-12 mid-season recap and awards

More good news: Arizona has the talent and athleticism to be a respectable defensive team. If the Wildcats improve their communication and submit consistent effort, they can right the ship on defense. The problem is fixable, but will Arizona resolve their issues before the tournament? If they do, the Wildcats can fulfill their preseason hype.