As Arizona assembled its non-conference slate in the offseason, adding one big-name opponent after another, the prospect of taking the top spot seemed never possible. A loss or two is bound to happen along the way, it’s just the law of averages.
That’s all.
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The top-ranked Wildcats (13-0) completed a perfect non-conference slate with a 99-71 victory over South Dakota State on Monday night. It’s the fourth time in history UA has won its first 13 games and its best start to a season since a record-setting 21-0 start in 2013-14.
It was Arizona’s eighth consecutive victory by at least 20 points, tying the school record set in 1928-29 and also allowing Tommy Lloyd his 125th win. Lloyd played 158 games, 12 fewer Fred Enke In the 1930s.
All three Wildcats posted double-doubles, including Acacia Peat 19 points and a career-high 14 rebounds. He was one point away from becoming the first UA freshman since to go 20-10. Benedict Maturin.
Jaden Bradley Scored 13 points and a career-high 10 assists Motaeus Crevas Arizona scored 13 points and 11 rebounds while shooting 53.2% from the field, 9-of-23 from 3-point range and 24-of-31 from the free throw line.
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UA led 51-35 at halftime and tied the score to 20 points before the first media timeout. Braden Burris Steals and layups. The Wildcats made just five of their first 13 shots in the second half but made up for it by scoring free throws.
With the outcome no longer up in the air, things got a little rocky with a few hard fouls, including one by SDSU Jaden Rogers The result against Bradley was blatant.
The Wildcats went on a 10-0 run to lead by 31 points with 5:42 left in the game.
Arizona made 7 consecutive shots, including 4 three-pointers. Pitt made his first career three-pointer and led 21-11 in less than 7 minutes. Turnovers were the only thing holding the Wildcats back, with five in the first eight minutes.
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With 10 minutes and 16 seconds left in the game, Pitt hit a jumper and UA led 32-16. It extended the lead to 19 points before halftime, but made 14 of 21 shots in the beginning and 8 of 9 in the final.
Arizona begins Big 12 play at Utah State on Saturday.