Arizona Wildcats Ranked #11 in First Coaches Poll

March 9, 2012; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats head coach Sean Miller watches game action against the Oregon State Beavers during the semi final round of the 2012 Pac 12 Tournament in the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-US PRESSWIRE

On Wednesday, October 17, the looming bulls-eye became a reality as the Arizona Wildcats were picked eleventh in the first USA Today Coaches Poll.  They are the highest ranked team west of the Rockies, two spots ahead of rival UCLA.

Arizona, full of new additions, has not been ranked this high to start a season since the 2006-2007 season, when they were picked tenth in both the AP and Coaches polls.

Everyone knew Arizona was loaded coming into the season, but now the coaches around the country have solidified it.  With an 11th place ranking, teams will be gunning for the Wildcats, attempting to upset them at every chance.

This ranking is a testament to Sean Miller and all the hard work he has put into this program.  We’ve seen the struggles and the glory in years past, but this could be the year where something magical happens.

The veterans as well as the youngsters are in for a ride as their best will always be expected on and off the court.

On top of the poll was Indiana, securing 21 of the 31 first place votes.  Rounding out the top five were Louisville  Kentucky, Ohio State and Michigan.

North Carolina State found itself at number six, while proven powerhouses Kansas, Duke, Syracuse and Florida wrapped up the top 10.