Arizona Basketball has the versatility and depth to be a dangerous team this season with 11 players that can all play and make a difference.
11. That’s the number of players on the Arizona Basketball roster that can play and have contributed so far this season (not counting the walk-ons). Of course with that many that can play, it puts head coach Sean Miller in a situation in which he has to decide who the starters are, who comes off the bench and how everyone is rotated in and out of the lineup. Bottom line, Arizona has the versatility and depth to be a scary team this season.
Miller has indicated that for now the starting five that have played the last three games are set: Nico Mannion, Dylan Smith, Josh Green, Zeke Nnaji and Chase Jeter. Of course, that can change as the season progresses based on performance on the court and during practice. This situation will motivate starters and non-starters to prove to Miller and the coaching staff they deserve minutes.
One of the most improved players from last season, Devonaire Doutrive, was looking to be a starter this season but ran into issues that caused him to be suspended for three games, which also cost him his starting spot to Smith. He did play against San Jose St, coming off the bench and will have to earn back his starting spot. Give credit to Smith though, he’s taken full advantage of this opportunity.
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Several times this season Miller has substituted his entire starting lineup at once. That’s how deepthis team is. Everyone will need to adjust this and understand their role on the team. The real key though will be how Miller utilizes all of these highly talented players in pressure moments and during post-season.
Multiple players on this team can play in several different positions, which makes this an extremely versatile and deep team. Having this kind of luxury allows Miller to keep his players fresh and push the ball the majority of the game. That will be key especially during the postseason.
Since Miller came on board as head coach, he’s had a lot of talent, but never so many on one team. There have been years he has had 7 or 8 players that could make an impact, but not 11. What’s even scarier, Brandon Williams is out due to injury. Imagine if he was in the lineup. Wow.
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At Zona Zealots, we believe this team is one of the deepest teams in the country and has a legit chance to make a very deep run in March. Maybe even far enough to get Miller into his first-ever Final Four. As always, Bear Down, Arizona!