16. Arizona (2-1)
The Wildcats have boasted elite talent in their lineups since Tommy Lloyd took over the program, with international flair as well. Their head coach has a long history of finding talent all over the world and a pair of Sweet Sixteen’s in three years demonstrates Arizona’s potential. However, several pieces from last year’s success left town and this new-look roster fell a bit short in their first major challenge this week.
After two laughers at home in the opening week, the Wildcats hit the road, playing in a tough environment in Madison this past Friday night. In a wild foul-filled matchup, Arizona fell 103-88 against Wisconsin for their first loss of the season. Jaden Bradley led the Wildcats with 22 points, Trey Townsend scored 17, and Tobe Awaka (9 points, 13 rebounds) came just short of a double-double on a night where the long-range shots simply weren’t going in.
There will be questions about the defense after allowing over 100 points to a Badgers offense that hasn’t exactly been elite in recent years. Arizona isn’t perfect and a horrid shooting night from Caleb Love certainly tanked the whole team’s performance. Better nights will come for the Wildcats, though perhaps we were too quick to label this a Top 10 team with all the new pieces in place. Nevertheless, a major bounce back opportunity comes next week as they welcome Duke to town.