8. Arizona (2-0)
Since Tommy Lloyd came to town Arizona has been a well-oiled machine and that success even continued for the Wildcats into the Big 12 last season. Even with another trip to the Sweet Sixteen, life goes on and there were plenty of changes in the offseason. The Wildcats are leaning heavily on new, young talent but found out quickly that they hit some home runs from that process.
Arizona got one of the best victories of the early college basketball season on opening night, triumphing 93-87 against defending champion Florida out in Las Vegas. Koa Peat was sensational in his collegiate debut with 30 points and 7 rebounds while Jaden Bradley added 27 points himself. The work wasn’t as impressive, but the Wildcats continued their strong play with a 93-67 win over Utah Tech later in the week. Fellow standout freshman Burries joined Peat with twin 18-point efforts, while Tobe Awaka had 12 points and 18 rebounds.
This team knocked off the defending champions, a team returning their entire frontcourt, in a game where Arizona attempted just five shots from outside the arc. The Wildcats have strength and athleticism and can outmuscle and outlast teams this season. If these freshmen live up to this early start, then Lloyd might have his best team yet in year five with this program. Another big opportunity awaits with UCLA this upcoming Friday.