Arizona Basketball: Keys to success versus Buffalo

Arizona basketball’s tumultuous season can still result in a Final Four trip. The first mission on the Wildcats’ journey is the fast-paced 13-seed Buffalo Bulls.

Arizona experienced one of the most bizarre 48-hour stretches that any program has seen a couple weeks ago. Coach Sean Miller was reportedly caught on an FBI wiretap discussing $100,000 payments in order to land superstar center Deandre Ayton. In addition, Allonzo Trier was suspended for testing positive for a banned substance for the second time in his career.

Alas, Miller is still coaching and Ayton and Trier are eligible and playing at high levels. Hence, the Wildcats are a frightening opponent and a true contender in the South Region. However, the Wildcats must submit consistent defensive effort in order to realize their potential.

Arizona has the athleticism and the length to defend at a high level. Miller has also proven to be a solid defensive coach. Yet, the Wildcats have struggled mightily on defense at times this season. Buffalo has a high-powered offense and will punish the Wildcats if they put forth an undisciplined defensive performance.

Additionally, the Wildcats must feed Ayton early and often. Arizona’s offense should run through Ayton as Buffalo will not have an answer for the Wildcats’ star. As a result, Buffalo will have to compensate defensively by double-teaming Ayton on his post touches. Once they do this, Arizona will always have at least one open player and will find uncontested shots.

Moreover, the Wildcats’ impressive group of complimentary starters should have huge games.  Trier, Rawle Alkins, and Parker Jackson-Cartwright are all adept 3-point shooters and will have great opportunities. Ayton’s frontcourt mate, Dusan Ristic, will also benefit from Ayton’s dominance and will likely get many high-percentage looks.

I have outlined Arizona’s keys to victory, but let’s take a deeper look at each one.