10. Arizona (2-0)
Arizona is a program that has been in marvelous shape in recent years. Tommy Lloyd took over as head coach back in 2021 and led the program to its second Sweet Sixteen last March. The offseason had no shortage of news, as the Wildcats transitioned into the Big 12 while making major changes on the roster. The only question that remained is how this new-look team would come together now on the court.
Few complaints exist from the opening week, including Monday night’s 93-64 win against Canisius. Caleb Love started what could be another dominant season with a 17-point, 6-assist effort in the victory. Saturday’s outing was even more of a laugher, as the Wildcats really delivered in a 102-44 home win over Old Dominion. Tobe Awaka stood out with 18 points and 15 rebounds, headlining a strong performance by the entire roster.
These two games only tell us so much, but what we’ve seen is certainly good news in Tucson. Love is going to be a star yet again for the Wildcats and some of the other new pieces will certainly carry their own weight. Time will tell on how this team competes in their first look at the Big 12, but the offense certainly looks just as potent as in recent years. It’ll be tested next week, with Arizona’s first true road game of the season coming with a Friday trip to Wisconsin.