Arizona has quickly emerged as the team to beat in the Big 12 this season. The Wildcats started the year ranked No. 13 in the preseason. They have surged all the way to No. 1 with a perfect 10–0 record. Their rise proves they belong among the nation’s elite.
What makes Arizona’s rise even more impressive is how they are winning. The Wildcats do not rely on one superstar scorer to carry the offense. Their leading scorer, forward Koa Peat, averages 14.3 points per game. That ranks just 357th nationally. This number is far from what most would expect from the top-ranked team in the country.
Instead, Arizona wins with balance and depth. The Wildcats average 90 points per game while allowing just 67.4 points, placing them just outside the top 50 nationally in points allowed. Offensively, they rank 18th in scoring, showing they can put up points without needing a high-volume scorer.
Arizona’s starting lineup tells the story. All five starters average double figures, making it difficult for opponents to focus on shutting down one player. Forward Tobe Awaka has been a key presence inside, ranking 14th in the nation in rebounds per game at 10.2. He has already pulled down 102 rebounds this season, giving Arizona a strong advantage on the glass.
While the Wildcats have yet to begin Big 12 play, their non-conference résumé is impressive. Arizona owns wins over SEC programs Florida, Alabama, and Auburn, building confidence early in the season. The victories over Alabama and Auburn were especially dominant, with both wins coming by more than 20 points. Arizona also picked up a statement win against UConn in mid-November, an upset that helped push their momentum even higher.
Arizona’s success starts in the paint. The Wildcats dominate inside, consistently outscoring opponents near the basket. Against Auburn, Arizona held a massive edge in paint points, highlighting their physical style of play. Despite ranking low nationally in three-point attempts and shooting, Arizona remains efficient by focusing on high-percentage shots close to the rim.
Their overall field goal percentage sits above 60 percent, driven by strong interior scoring and solid bench production. Arizona’s ability to control the paint separates them from many teams that rely heavily on three-point shooting.
With balance, toughness, and a clear identity, Arizona has set the tone early. If this formula continues, the Wildcats look ready to make a deep run in the Big 12 and beyond.
Next up, Arizona faces San Diego State in the Hall of Fame Series. Although the game is technically a neutral-site game, it will be played in Phoenix, giving the Wildcats a clear crowd advantage. Arizona enters the matchup as a heavy favorite, with a projected 93.4% chance of winning, largely due to its dominance inside the paint.
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