Advertisement

Arizona Wildcats Fans: Top 20 Fantasy Experiences

Shereen Rayan
Shereen Rayan

Zona Zealots
Oct 11, 2014; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats fans enter the Zona Zoo student section before the game against the Southern California Trojans at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 11, 2014; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats fans enter the Zona Zoo student section before the game against the Southern California Trojans at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports

At Zona Zealots, we asked Arizona Wildcats Fans, and after careful deliberation, we’ve comprised a list of the Top 20 Fantasy Experiences.

Have you ever thought to yourself, ‘If it was possible to do something associated with the Arizona Wildcats, what would it be?’ ZonaZealots did, and man was it fun!

At Zona Zealots, we polled our Twitter and Facebook followers, and asked all the writers a question:

We received a variety of answers, and came up with several ourselves, and dwindled the list down to the top 20. We know what you’re thinking, ‘Is that even possible?’ Well, it wasn’t easy, but we did it.

Please note that no one mentioned was contacted about these fantasy experiences, this is all pure fandom and fantasy. Oh yeah, and we kept it clean, of course.

Let us know if you come up with something we didn’t, if we get enough idea’s we could put together another slide show!

To make it more fun, think of a few yourself and see if it made our list.

And, here we go…………

Next: No. 20

Jul 13, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Softball player Jennie Finch bats during the MLB legends and celebrity softball game at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 13, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Softball player Jennie Finch bats during the MLB legends and celebrity softball game at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

No. 20 – Get Coaching Tips from Jennie Finch

The former Wildcat pitching legend and the renowned star who was a part of so many great Arizona Softball teams may now be redefining herself, this time perhaps as a baseball coach.

Yep, you heard that right!

The 35-year-old, Southern California native had the opportunity to serve as a guest coach for the Bridgeport Bluefish last Sunday. The Bluefish are essentially a part of an Independent Baseball League, but specifically, they are a member of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, that features eight teams.

It also appears the team has been inviting guests to coach the team for a game, and Finch just so happened to be one of them. She was given the chance to coach last weekend, and she certainly proved herself in the lone game, winning 3-1 over the visiting Southern Maryland Blue Crabs.

While the baseball coaching doesn’t appear to be a permanent stay for Finch, perhaps we found a future coach among us. Worth noting, she’s also the first woman to manage a professional baseball team, even if it was only one game.

Hmm, how cool would it be to be coached by Finch? She could teach you how to bat, catch and run the bases. How many of you play in hometown recreation leagues and could use this valuable coaching from one the most famous softball stars.

She’s certainly a wealth of knowledge when it comes to softball/ baseball, plus she’s beautiful and fierce all at the same time. Courage and competitiveness along with beauty, would that be fun gentlemen?

Next: No. 19

Jun 3, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving (2) stretches during practice before the NBA Finals at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 3, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving (2) stretches during practice before the NBA Finals at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

No 19 – Be able to attend a private NBA Draft Workout

The 2016 NBA Draft is nearly upon us, and as Arizona fans, we have been blessed with a strong program, dating back to the Fred Snowden days, to Luuuutttee, and now Sean Miller.

We have grown accustomed to good basketball, and we are certainly no stranger to seeing former Arizona players get drafted.

At Zona Zealots, we just wonder what that must be like for any draft hopeful?

I’m sure the process is certainly challenging, and grueling for any athlete hoping to be drafted, but what exactly does their workout consist of, when they are invited by a team?

How cool of an experience would that be? Watch our beloved Wildcats go through their workouts, and see what goes into the process before the NBA Draft.

Former Wildcat Gabe York is currently experiencing that himself. He has already had one workout with the Sacramento Kings so far, and at Zona Zealots, we had brought that information to you earlier. It appears now he will have another workout, this time with the Phoenix Suns.

For York, he definitely has a way to go to prove his worth, but he at least has a great opportunity to showcase his talent, and prove to GM’s & Scouts he’s worthy enough to be on an NBA roster net season.

Being able to hang behind the coaches supporting your Wildcat, he knows you are there for him because you are wearing your Arizona gear, and the extra support helps him do a fantastic job. Not only will you be watching and supporting your Wildcat, but you will also be watching him play and workout with a number of other notable soon-to-be rookies from the other top basketball schools.

Being able to catch those precious moments before an NBA star becomes a star is incomparable!

Next: No. 18

No. 18 – Perform the ‘Running Man’ Dance with the Arizona, Basketball Freshman

It is the dance that has taken over social media by storm! From celebrities to athletes, and sports teams, everyone seems to be participating in the Running Man Challenge.

Recently, NBA star

Carmelo Anthony

and late night talk show host & comedian, Jimmy Fallon performed the dance, generating some interest, and of course having a little fun.

Originally, the dance started with just

two teenage boys

(Kevin Vincent and Jerry Hall) having a little fun. It really caught on when the University of Maryland basketball team performed their rendition of the dance.

Like most national trends, the dance is the new hot thing, and the Arizona Baseball team seems have had their fun participating as well. Perhaps so much, that it has been recognized as one of the better-performed dances.

That prompted us to think how it would be to do this dance with the incoming, basketball freshmen. The group certainly seems to be a fun and youthful bunch, and that would definitely make this next fantasy fun.

The now infamous song entitled “My Boo” by Ghost Town DJ’s starts playing, out come the guys, and you start having a Running Man Challenge dance off. Hilarity ensues, and this is easily one of the best experiences of your life.

This fantasy experience would include planning out and carrying out a video to be posted on YouTube; every other Wildcats fan would know you were part of the team for the day.

Next: No. 17

Jun 3, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving (2) stretches during practice before the NBA Finals at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 3, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving (2) stretches during practice before the NBA Finals at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

No 17 – Be able to attend a private NBA Draft Workout

The 2016 NBA Draft is nearly upon us, and as Arizona fans, we have been blessed with a strong program, dating back to the Fred Snowden days, to Luuuutttee, and now Sean Miller.

We have grown accustomed to good basketball, and we are certainly no stranger to seeing former Arizona players get drafted.

At Zona Zealots, we just wonder what that must be like for any draft hopeful?

I’m sure the process is certainly challenging, and grueling for any athlete hoping to be drafted, but what exactly does their workout consist of, when they are invited by a team?

How cool of an experience would that be? Watch our beloved Wildcats go through their workouts, and see what goes into the process before the NBA Draft.

Former Wildcat Gabe York is currently experiencing that himself. He has already had one workout with the Sacramento Kings so far, and at Zona Zealots, we had brought that information to you earlier. It appears now he will have another workout, this time with the Phoenix Suns.

For York, he definitely has a way to go to prove his worth, but he at least has an excellent opportunity to showcase his talent and prove to GM’s & Scouts he’s worthy enough to be on an NBA roster net season.

Being able to hang behind the coaches supporting your Wildcat, he knows you are there for him because you are wearing your Arizona gear, and the extra support helps him do a fantastic job. Not only will you be watching and supporting your Wildcat, but you will also be watching him play and work out with some other notable soon-to-be rookies from the other top basketball schools.

Being able to catch those precious moments before an NBA star becomes a star is incomparable!

Next: No. 16

June 25, 2012; Omaha, NE, USA; Arizona Wildcats pitcher James Farris (36) throws during the game against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the first inning of championship finals game two of the 2012 College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Thorson-USA TODAY Sports
June 25, 2012; Omaha, NE, USA; Arizona Wildcats pitcher James Farris (36) throws during the game against the South Carolina Mandatory Credit: Bruce Thorson-USA TODAY Sport

No. 16 – Throw out the 1st Pitch at Hi-Corbett

Nothing beats America’s pastime, like enjoying the atmosphere of a college baseball game. From the tinging sound of aluminum bats to hot dogs, sunflower seeds, and the seventh inning stretch, who wishes they could just throw a baseball around right now?

At Zona Zealots, we certainly love our Wildcats Baseball, and we’ve been following the baseball teams’ progress this year. In head coach Jay Johnson’s first season with the Wildcats, he appears to have the team playing well and seems to have exceeded expectations, winning 38 games, and making the regional playoffs.

For this next fantasy, that got us wondering about the first pitch. Let’s face it; we’ve all seen them, from the good ones to the well uh, not so good ones…

If you’re like us, then you too have perhaps wondered how you would fare in throwing out the first pitch? That inspired this scenario.

It’s the season’s opening game at Hi-Corbett Field. The star spangled banner has already been played, and it’s a packed house. You’ve been invited by Athletic Director Greg Byrne, and Johnson to throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

You casually stroll up to the mound, you wind up, plant the foot opposite to your throwing hand, the ball releases and…

Thud! The baseball zips into the catcher’s mitt for a strike!

Next: No. 15

Nov 28, 2014; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats offensive lineman Mickey Baucus (68) hoists the territorial cup Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2014; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats offensive lineman Mickey Baucus (68) hoists the territorial cup Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

No. 15 – Kiss the Territorial Cup After Beating ASU

Mmmmwaaahhh!

It’s a bitter rivalry between these two foes that had started over 100 years ago. We all know what this game means to us, and nothing is better than beating ASU, and having bragging rights for the entire year.

Like all athletes do when they win in the competition, they cling to their trophies and awards, as if clutching their own child.

It’s a hard-fought game, but the Wildcats come away victorious! The crowd goes wild! You are on the sidelines with the team giving out high fives, high ten’s and hugs.

Who wouldn’t want to be a part of an Arizona victory, where afterward, you get to hoist the Territorial Cup and kiss it? Add to that the possibility of the football team hoisting you with the trophy while you are kissing it and we have just taken it to a whole different level!

Next: No. 14

March 11, 2015; Las Vegas, NV, USA; NBA former players Gary Payton (left) and A.C. Green (right) watch courtside during the second half in the first round of the Pac-12 Conference tournament between the Oregon State Beavers and the Colorado Buffaloes at MGM Grand Garden Arena. The Buffaloes defeated the Beavers 78-71. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
March 11, 2015; Las Vegas, NV, USA; NBA former players Gary Payton (left) and A.C. Green (right) watch courtside during the second half in the first round of the Pac-12 Conference tournament between the Oregon State Beavers and the Colorado Buffaloes at MGM Grand Garden Arena. The Buffaloes defeated the Beavers 78-71. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

No. 14 – Courtside seating at an Arizona Basketball Game

To be so close to the game, the players and the coach is a chance to see a side of the game rarely witnessed by fans.

For lifestyles of the ‘not-so-rich and famous’, we often are not fortunate to experience such things, like sitting courtside at an Arizona basketball game or any college or professional basketball game for that matter. You usually have to donate a lot of money to get those precious floor seats.

January 21, 2016; Stanford, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats head coach Sean Miller instructs during the first half against the Stanford Cardinal at Maples Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
January 21, 2016; Stanford, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats head coach Sean Miller instructs during the first half against the Stanford Cardinal at Maples Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

But tonight that will all change, you have just won a courtside seat at the McKale Center for a hotly contested game with the second-best team in the Pac-12, Arizona being the first. The time on the ticket says that you can come in with the ZonaZoo and watch warm-ups, hang with the announcers and parents and find your seat.

Your seat is close enough to hear everything coach Sean Miller has to say during the game.

Being so close, you almost feel like you are part of the team. You can listen to what the players are saying to each other, what the referee is saying to the players and the coaches, what the opposing team is telling our Wildcats including any trash-talking which may arise.

The game goes down to the wire, one of our Wildcats shoots a last second shot to win the game, and Arizona ends up being the No. 1 team in the Pac-12. The coach is so happy he invites you to come back into the locker room with the team.

Wouldn’t that be a total blast?

Next: No. 13

Jan 12, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats head coach Sean Miller, guard Nick Johnson (13), center Kaleb Tarczewski (35), guard T.J. McConnell (4), forward Aaron Gordon (11) and forward Brandon Ashley (21) during a time out in the second half of the game against the USC Trojans at Galen Center. Arizona Wildcats won 73-53. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 12, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats head coach Sean Miller, guard Nick Johnson (13), center Kaleb Tarczewski (35), guard T.J. McConnell (4), forward Aaron Gordon (11) and forward Brandon Ashley (21) during a timeout in the second half of the game against the USC Trojans at Galen Center. Arizona Wildcats won 73-53. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

No. 13 – Celebrate with Kaleb Tarczewski and Nick Johnson after Graduation

After the 2016 University of Arizona graduation marches, Kaleb Tarczewski, and Nick Johnson went to Dirtbags to celebrate Kaleb’s graduation. Zack Rosenblatt reported on Twitter, “My Uber driver claims that he gave Kaleb Tarczewski & Nick Johnson (+ others) a ride tonight and that they both squeezed into the passenger seat.”

Got us thinking, how fun would that be? Spending the day with Nick Johnson (Point Guard for the Austin Spurs), and Zeus all day and into the night with a stop at Dirtbags? Had to be fun. Celebrating the illustrious college basketball career and Eller Business degree Zeus earned at a time when he had nothing but fun on his mind.

You start out at Dirtbags, stop by at Frog n’ Firkin, then hop in another Uber to downtown where you hit every cool club. The former Arizona basketball players got all kinds of selfies with you so you would always remember the night.

When Zeus says goodbye, he tells you he will never forget the night and thanks you for coming and celebrating with him and ends his goodbye with ‘Beardown!’

Next: No. 12

Feb 12, 2016; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats guard Allonzo Trier (11) dunks the ball during the second half against the UCLA Bruins at McKale Center. Arizona won 81-75. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 12, 2016; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats guard Allonzo Trier (11) dunks the ball during the second half against the UCLA Bruins at McKale Center. Arizona won 81-75. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports

No. 12 – Be the only fan at an Arizona Wildcats Basketball dunk contest

Setting: McKale Center, your favorite music playing, and the entire basketball team has prepared for a dunk contest all for you. You are sitting courtside near the basket.

Who doesn’t love a good throw down? We all anxiously await for those moments when you see the player race down the court, and soar through the air….boom shaka la ka!!!

This would be a perfect opportunity to see what the guys are like in non-game settings, where they’re just having fun, and showing off their athleticism.

The dunk contest goes three rounds, so all the players show you their dunks in round one. You even become a prop in a couple of the dunks!

Whoever wins goes down to University and spends the evening with you talking basketball until it’s time for the night to end.

Next: No. 11

Mar 25, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Stanley Johnson (5) shoots during practice as head coach Sean Miller watches before the semifinal of the West Regional at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 25, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Stanley Johnson (5) shoots during practice as head coach Sean Miller watches before the semifinal of the West Regional at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

No. 11 – Challenge Sean Miller to a Free Throw Shooting Contest

By now I’m sure you are all aware of his playing days at Pitt, and from an early age, he had a unique love and talent for the sport, and that certainly got him a lot of attention, even appearing on the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. He still has a mad dribble, he hasn’t lost it, the competition will be stiff.

The son of a well-renowned high school coach in Pennsylvania, Miller, followed a similar trajectory to his father, becoming a head coach at Xavier and now Arizona. In just 12 years, he is quickly becoming one of the best coaches in college basketball.

Miller still does his best to stay still involved in the sport beyond just coaching it.

Widely known as a good shooter from his playing days in College (shot a career 88.5% from the free throw line), naturally Millers’ competitive side came out when it came time for the American Heart Association’s Coaches Shootout.

Miller won the shootout back in 2012, ultimately making 145 of 150 free throws shot. That’s just a clip under 97%! That’s impressive!

Naturally, at Zona Zealots, we thought of what it would be like to face the competitive Sean Miller. Granted he almost assuredly would embarrass us, but what a great opportunity that would be, and definitely would be fun to shoot hoops with Coach Miller! Maybe he would even coach you a bit, and show you how to perform those dribbling tricks. At the very least, you would be able to have a fun competition and conversation about basketball with one of the best coaches in the Nation.

At the very least, you would be able to have a fun competition and conversation about basketball with one of the best coaches in the Nation.

Next: No. 10

Sep 3, 2015; Tucson, AZ, USA; The Arizona Wildcats celebrate after the fourth quarter against the Texas-San Antonio Roadrunners at Arizona Stadium. Arizona won 42-32. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 3, 2015; Tucson, AZ, USA; The Arizona Wildcats celebrate after the fourth quarter against the Texas-San Antonio Roadrunners at Arizona Stadium. Arizona won 42-32. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports

No. 10 – Be in the Arizona locker room after a huge win, celebrating with the team

As Charlie Sheen forever epitomized the phrase ‘winning’, it’s what we all long for in an athletic competition. Let’s face it, no one likes losing, and when you win, you continue to ride that emotional high.

Since coming to the University of Arizona in November of 2011, the Wildcats have grown more accustomed to winning these days. We’ve seen some highs (winning ten games and going to the Fiesta Bowl), as well as some lows (losing to WSU at home in 2013).

Wouldn’t you love to be inside the Arizona locker room, following a huge win!

The team certainly seems to enjoy themselves under Rodriguez, and the team certainly embodies, that fun, competitive spirit. Despite the program, and the athletic department’s best attempt at showing us a first-person’s view of the commotion in an Arizona locker room following a victory, it still wouldn’t be the same as experiencing it first hand.

Nuff said!!!

Next: No. 9

Sep 26, 2015; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats wide receiver Samajie Grant (10) warms up before the game against the UCLA Bruins at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 26, 2015; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats wide receiver Samajie Grant (10) warms up before the game against the UCLA Bruins at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports

No. 9 – Spend the day with Samajie Grant

Ladies, listen up! If you haven’t caught a glimpse of senior a wide receiver Samajie Grant Snapchat, you don’t know what you’re missing. He rarely wears a shirt, showing the world his enviable physique which he works very hard to achieve. The meals he eats make you salivate as well (yes we went there).

Wouldn’t it be fun to hang out with Samajie for a day? Get to see what happens in the locker room, find out where the players eat, where they work out, listen in on a Coach Rod pre and post-practice speech? Hang with him in the healing pools?

More from Arizona Wildcats

Grant loves to sing and enjoy life, and maybe he would let you sing along with him. He is always smiling. He says he doesn’t have enough body fat, checking in at 3.5 percent, so you have to think he will be eating a calorie-rich breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

It won’t all be fun and games, though, you should get a few hard workouts in during your time with Grant. That’ll help with all the calories you will be consuming.

Grants personality is contagious, he is an A-1 extrovert (we mean this in a good way), and you know how fun extroverts can be, they are the of the party. Hopefully, he would take you out on the town to finish up the evening.

All in all, Samajie likes to have fun, and it just seems like it would be fun just to be like Samajie for a day. You can follow Samajie on Snapchat at @eldinero10 and see for yourself!

Next: No. 8

Photo care of Shereen Rayan 4/18/2016
Photo care of Shereen Rayan 4/18/2016

No. 8 – Go on the road for a three-game series with the Arizona Baseball team

There is a new coach in town with a new attitude. He’s let the Arizona Baseball team be themselves, and that has galvanized the team, they have so much fun in the dugout, on the bus, before games, and anywhere they go.

That’s why it would be so much fun to hang out with them on a road trip. Cheering on each player as they come to the plate to bat. Be at home plate to congratulate each Wildcat as they score a run. Helping the team tape their Snapchats, catching them doing silly things, but then seriously smacking some balls into the outfield and over the wall.

Don’t believe us? Check this video out!

If you have never watched a baseball game of this caliber from the dugout, you are missing something special. Zona Zealots got a chance recently, and let us tell you; everything happens at double speed. The runners run faster, the ball flys higher and harder, the energy when the game is close is unexplainable.

This year’s team reminds us of the Monmouth basketball team bench. They are always coming up with new ideas to have fun and show support for their teammates. Team chemistry can propel a team to accomplish feats no one ever thought they could.

Just think back to that 13-inning game against the Cal Bears, the game went so long and was so close, that the exhilaration the team must have felt after that win probably can’t be put into words. Oh to have been on that bus! Once you get to know these Wildcats you can’t help but be in their court or their dugout that is.

Hey, maybe you will make into a team video!

Next: No. 7

Apr 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell announces the number one overall pick in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft at Auditorium Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell announces the number one overall pick in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft at Auditorium Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

No. 7 – Invited to an Arizona Wildcats NBA or NFL Draft party

Let’s set up the scenario: A friend of yours is friends with a Wildcat, who will definitely be drafted into the NFL or NBA. Your friend invited you as his or her guest.

The Athlete asked your friend to arrive early to hang out before all the family gets there. You get to reminisce with the athlete and all his friends, learning all the back stories and stuff no fan ever gets to hear about. You also get the chance to tell the player what you will always remember, the play that made you lose your voice, what he means to you.

You exchange phone numbers; he wants to keep in touch with you and hang out when he visits next. You learn that you really like this guy, and he is a truly great person, you are sure he will be successful in the Pros.

The draft starts and nerves are high; the experts have projected him to go in the first round. Finally, his name flashes across the screen, and he gets the phone call, and you are there to share in the moment. He just went from college athlete to professional in the wink of an eye.

The celebration begins and continues into the night, a night full of promise and the future.

It’s a day you’ll never forget.

Next: No. 6

"88" The Documentary Sean P. Malone
Frame grab of Lute Olson from the upcoming documentary, ’88. (Courtesy of Waterfoot Films)

No. 6 – LUUUUUUTTTTEEE!!!

The Wildcat legend that came to Tucson over 30 years ago led many great Wildcat teams, and built the culture that is now Arizona Basketball!

Olson has certainly seen his fair share of basketball action and has had many great experiences in his time here in Tucson. Who wouldn’t want to sit down with the Legendary Olson, and just pick his brain about basketball, and exchange plenty of intriguing stories in his coaching career?

Olson put Arizona’s basketball program on the map! For that, and all the wonderful memories, we could surely owe him a beer or two at the very least.

You and Lute could walk down memory lane, ask him the questions you always have wanted to ask him. After you finish visiting, he invites you to take in an Arizona basketball game with him, and throughout the game, he explains what he would do differently and what Sean Miller thinks when he calls certain plays or doesn’t call a timeout.

The two of you get a photo together, and he asks you to send it to him so he can autograph it for you, you hang the photo in a place you can see every day remind you of the day you spent with the legend Hall of Fame Coach Lute Olson.

Next: No. 5

March 14, 2015; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Arizona Wildcats guard T.J. McConnell (4) high-fives fans before the championship game of the Pac-12 Conference tournament Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
March 14, 2015; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Arizona Wildcats guard T.J. McConnell (4) high-fives fans before the championship game of the Pac-12 Conference tournament Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

No. 5 – Play a pick-up game of 1-on-1 with TJ McConnell

Our beloved Wildcat TJ is now enjoying a surprisingly solid start to his NBA career. From a lowly recruited high school basketball player out of Pennsylvania to college basketball phenom,  to now playing in the NBA in Philly, his hard work has put him in the enviable position he’s in today!

He’s a fiery competitor, and embodies that tough, fighting spirit. TJ truly knows how to ‘Bear Down’! That’s why we think it would be fun to play hoops with this Wildcat Legend!

T.J. invites you to visit him and meet him in the McKale Center; the athletic department gave him the keys. You show up, and he has some legit authentic Wildcats basketball shorts and shoes in your size.

You pick up the ball and pass it to T.J. who passes it back and the one-on-one game commences. He goes easy on you, but still ends up winning, and he has so much fun, he asks you to play just one more game.

He hands you the basketball, and it has an Arizona logo on it, and he signs it and gives you a bro hug (if you are a guy) or a bear hug (if you are a gal).

If only…

Next: No. 4

Jan 3, 2016; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats head coach Sean Miller claps against the Arizona State Sun Devils during the second half at Wells-Fargo Arena. The Wildcats won 94-82. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats head coach Sean Miller claps against the Arizona State Sun Devils during the second half at Wells-Fargo Arena. The Wildcats won 94-82. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

No. 4 – Spend game day work shadowing Sean Miller before and ASU game

Have you ever imagined what game day would be like for Sean Miller the day of a huge rivalry game? The practice alone would be intense! Or not, we just don’t know the drill, but if we could work shadow Miller we could find out ourselves.

He would turn to us for advice, and listen to what we had to say. If it was an away game, we could sit next to him on the plane to review the game strategy with a fine-tooth comb. Seem to remember hearing that Miller is extremely organized; his office is nice and tidy, everything in its rightful place, papers stacked neatly.

You could join Miller watching game tape, and he would let you point out the issue you have been seeing, and he would be really interested in what you had to say.

More from Zona Zealots

Maybe you could even draw up a play, and then during the game, be able to call it out to the team. If the play worked, you could become closer to Miller.

Before the game, you could witness and take in the pre-game motivation speech, then add your own part at the end of Millers. During halftime, you cold be in on the strategy for the second half, giving tidbits of advice to the players. Then finally, after the win, you could be in the locker room to hear the post-game speech and do whatever the Wildcats do to celebrate.

Something that is a mystery to most fans, is how Miller comes up with those great answers diffusing any issues the media may be conjuring up, does he have staff that anticipates it? Or does he just come up with stuff on the fly? We could find out.

After all that the only thing left would be to go to Millers favorite bar, sit back, have a lite beer (he is watching he weight) and revel in the win along with laughing at Hurley’s antics and how the desired outcome did not work.

If only…

Next: No. 3

Oct 31, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Arizona Wildcats head coach Rich Rodriguez disputes a call in the third quarter against the against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 31, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Arizona Wildcats head coach Rich Rodriguez disputes a call in the third quarter against the against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

No. 3 – Hold the clipboard for Head Football Coach Rich Rodriguez when the Cats are #Winning

Haven’t you always wanted to know what Head Arizona Football Coach Rich Rodriguez is saying while he covers his mouth? What is he telling the players when they mess up or when they do exactly what he asked them to do? When he calls what play and why? Wouldn’t it be fun to be there when he needs you to help figure out what play he should call so the Cats could win? Granted he would have to trust you first.

It just seems like so much fun for a football enthusiast, and huge Wildcats fan to be able to be Rich Rodriguez’s right-hand guy or gal. A year or so from now, he will be relying on his quarterback son Rhett Rod, he trusts his son. They sit and watch tape together. 

More from Arizona Wildcats

Before the game, you could be a part of the hype and be able to hear the coach speak to the team to get them prepared. After the game when Arizona wins, you can be in the locker room celebrating and dancing with the team, counting the score point by point, and singing ‘Bear Down Arizona!’ You could be there in the press conference and give Coach Rod a supportive smile when someone asks a stupid question or a difficult question.

Don’t forget the Cat Walk! Everyone looks forward to high-fiving coach Rod before a football game, and you could be right behind him giving high fives too.

Even better, maybe you could become so invaluable to him, he would hire you for every game! You certainly wouldn’t be as critical of the man, because you would understand what is going down on the sideline.

Next: No. 2

No. 2 – Party with Rob Gronkowski on the Gronk family party bus

Who doesn’t want to ride on the Gronk family party bus? Lately, Rob Gronkowski has been showing a lot more Wildcats pride each and every time he gets a chance. On red carpets, when he is involved in charity, when he is explaining how fast he is going to heal from injury, he’s been representing the U of A!

It’s no mystery that Gronk and his family likes to have fun, drinking, dancing, just being himself whenever and wherever he wants too (for the most part). He’s not worried what people think, and that is an endearing quality in the sports world today.

After taking in Gronkowski’s NFL game from the sidelines, and after Gronk comes out of the locker room ready to party after a win, you would board the party bus with Gronk’s brothers. The chauffeur would take you from Club to Club. You would be dancing, drinking, and having fun with Gronkowski with reckless abandon, not caring what anyone thinks about you while knowing they are envious of you.

Maybe the Gronk would let you in on some New England Patriot secrets, did Tom Brady instruct the ball boys to deflate the balls in the playoff game? Does Bill Belichick cheat? Or is he misconstrued? What motivates Rob to play so well?

He would answer any question you had, and you would become his confidant and party buddy for the day. And as you said goodbye to this special person, he hands you his Jersey autographed, “to my No. 1 Fan, BearDown Rob Gronkowski.” Complete with a hug and if you are female, a kiss.

Next: No. 1

Jun 16, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr reacts prior to game six of the NBA Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 16, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr reacts before game six of the NBA Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

No. 1 – One on one with Golden State Warriors Head Coach Steve Kerr, the day after his team wins the Championship

STEEEEVVVEEEE KEEERRRRRRRR!!!

The former Wildcat, sharp-shooting legend, now turned professional basketball coach is just such a likable guy.His unique, quick, small ball brand of basketball is taking over the NBA, and Kerr is indeed finding unprecedented success in his young, coaching career.

His unique, quick, small ball brand of basketball is taking over the NBA, and Kerr is indeed finding unprecedented success in his young, coaching career. Granted it certainly helps to have the unanimous MVP in Steph Curry as your point guard, as well having a bevy of talented players on you roster.

From being a guy who saw tons of success as a role player in his illustrious, 16-year playing career, he was definitely a part of a number of championship winning teams. Those winning ways are continuing into his coaching career.

Jun 19, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Andre Iguodala acknowledges fans during the Golden State Warriors 2015 championship celebration in downtown Oakland. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 19, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Andre Iguodala acknowledges fans during the Golden State Warriors 2015 championship celebration in downtown Oakland. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Since taking over the Golden State Warriors in 2014, the team has already won a championship under his guidance, and recently broke the Chicago Bulls’ infamous 72-win record in 1995-96 (a team he was a part of).

For this next fantasy, that got us thinking, how cool would it have been to be side-by-side, celebrating with the Wildcat great?

You are there for the postgame celebration on the court, front row. Then you are asked to come back to the locker room and are handed a pair of goggles to protect you from the Champagne that will be flowing and flying around the locker room.

Then after the celebration at Oracle Arena, the team goes out for more drinks at a local bar, you get to go too!

must read: Arizona Wildcats: Top 30 athletes in school history

You and Kerr are celebrating as the team drives down Lakeside Avenue, the blue and yellow confetti streams down from the rooftops, fans are cheering you on as you finally arrive at the Oakland Convention Center, trophy in hand. You give the trophy back to Kerr and Iguodala gives you a high five before you end the day congratulating the whole team.

Have any more fantasy experiences we didn’t think about? Let us know in the comments below and BearDown!

Shereen Rayan

Shereen Rayan

Shereen Rayan gets to the heart of the story when it comes to sports and the athletes who play them. She is most interested in the story behind the headlines. Her expertise on the Arizona Wildcats has led to guest contributions on “What’s Bruin,” and “MarkRogersTV”. She also is a staple at the Drew League in Compton and high school athlete showcases such as Pangos and Ballislife. Shereen is the host and producer of In The Front Row a YouTube channel, https://youtube.com/inthefrontrow