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NCAA Basketball: Analyzing 6 teams in play for CMU transfer Jesse Zarzuela

Dec 29, 2022; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Central Michigan Chippewas guard Jesse Zarzuela (3) shoots on Michigan Wolverines forward Tarris Reed Jr. (32) in the second half at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 29, 2022; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Central Michigan Chippewas guard Jesse Zarzuela (3) shoots on Michigan Wolverines forward Tarris Reed Jr. (32) in the second half at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
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NCAA Basketball
NCAA Basketball Arizona Wildcats Zachary BonDurant-USA TODAY Sports

Arizona Wildcats

The Wildcats have three proven guards on the roster in sophomores Kylan Boswell and Alabama transfer Jaden Bradley, along with senior wing, Pelle Larsson. They still need to add depth off the bench to replace Cedric Henderson and Adama Bal and while four-star point guard commit KJ Lewis is a good ball-handler, he’s at best a 10-15 mpg contributor as a freshman.

Zarzuela’s ability to create his own offense is something the current Arizona guards can’t do. And while talented, can either Bradley or Boswell become a lead guard and a 15+ ppg scorer next season? If not, they at least can use another veteran guard that can provide double-digits off the bench.

George Mason

New head coach Tony Skinn has done a good job in the portal, landing several transfers. Guys like Darius Maddox, Keyshawn Hall, and returning guard Ronald Polite is a good backcourt but none of them are point guards. This would provide a good opportunity for Zarzuela to come in and not only start but also be the lead guard to run the offense.

The only issue may be that with so many new faces, he might not get a favorable role depending on how things shake out. While he likely would be coming off the bench at the power conference options, there’s more clarity compared to the complete crapshoot that is on the new Patriots roster.