Arizona Basketball: Wildcats challenged in exhibition game
By David Rosen
It was no easy victory for Arizona Basketball as they took down Chico State in exhibition play 74-65.
Arizona Basketball had to earn it the hard way as Chico State came inside McKale Center with an upset in mind. Even though the Wildcats were down one point at the half, they came out victorious 74-65. It was only an exhibition game, but still a win is important especially early in the season, helping building this team’s confidence.
Kudos to Chico St. This was an exhibition game and they are a Division II team, but played like a Division I team. This exhibition game showed that the Wildcats can’t take any opponent for granted. A lot for this team to work on, but not worried one bit, it’s only the first week in November. Much basketball to be played!
Prior to the start of the game, Wildcat fans received some disappointing news as Zeke Nnaji would be sitting out with an ankle sprain. Soon after that news broke, it was announced the Devonaire Doutrive would be suspended indefinitely for violating team rules. Hopefully, both players will get back into action soon.
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The last time these two teams met in exhibition play the Wildcats demolished Chico St, but this time it was a much different story. Turnovers and poor perimeter defense. Chico St took advantage and went 6-15 from beyond the new three-point line. As a result, the Wildcats faced a one point deficit after 20 minutes of play.
Chase Jeter led all Wildcats at the half with 7 points and as a team outrebounded Chico State 23-17. Nine turnovers though led to 13 points off of turnovers, which didn’t help Arizona build any sort of confidence on the offensive side of things.
In the second half, the Wildcats took much better care of the basketball and only had 3 turnovers, forcing 7 and putting up 13 points off of turnovers. Right away, the Wildcats were being more aggressive in taking the ball to the basket. The defense stepped up as well, forcing Chico St to take contested shots.
Better shooting and smarter decision making helped the Wildcats slowly take control of the second half. They only made one three-pointer in the second half, but it was the higher percentage shots they took, which contributed to them coming away with the victory.
Key things that stood out in this game
- Everyone contributed on both ends of the floor, which equated to everyone scoring!
- Jeter and Ira Lee took control of the paint. Both players combined had 21 rebounds, with Lee having a double-double, 14-10.
- Mannion showed signs of why he is one of the best guards. Quickness and court vision are incredible. Yes, he made some turnovers, but overall he had good game considering it was the first time they play an actual opponent.
- Josh Green finished with 10 points, struggled at times, but that’s expected for a freshman. Still had a good first showing.
- Max Hazzard can shoot!
- Jemarl Baker played the backup point guard position well.
- Stone Gettings is a strong and versatile frontcourt player for Arizona
- Christian Koloko saw limited playing time in the first half but showed why he is someone not to sleep on.
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At Zona Zealots, we are excited that the Arizona Basketball season is officially here. Next up for the Wildcats is NAU on Nov. 6th at home, 7:00 pm PST on the Pac-12 Network. As always, Bear Down, Arizona!