Arizona Dominates UConn with Strong Paint Performance in 71-67 Win
STORRS, Conn. — The Arizona Wildcats claimed a significant victory over the UConn Huskies, winning 71-67 in a highly anticipated clash between two top-five ranked teams. The match took a dramatic turn just before tipoff when UConn announced that starting senior center Tarris Reed Jr. would miss the game due to a sprained ankle. Reed, who averages 20.0 points and 9.3 rebounds per game, was a key player for the Huskies, and his absence was felt throughout the contest.
Without Reed, UConn found it challenging to defend against Arizona’s aggressive style of play. The Wildcats capitalized on their size and strength in the paint, dominating UConn’s frontcourt. Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd acknowledged the impact of Reed’s absence but emphasized his team’s resilience. “We know it changes things,” he stated. “But if you get a good hop, field it and turn two. Our guys found a way to do that.”
Arizona’s Dominance in the Paint
From the outset, Arizona’s strategy was clear. The Wildcats focused on attacking the basket, with Koa Peat scoring an early layup and Motiejus Krivas consistently getting touches in the paint. By halftime, Krivas had already amassed a career-high 10 rebounds. Jaden Bradley was also instrumental, frequently driving to the hoop and drawing fouls.
Despite being one of the least prolific three-point shooting teams nationally, Arizona’s identity revolves around a strong inside game. Entering the matchup, they ranked last in the percentage of points scored from beyond the arc, making only 6.3 three-pointers per game. Yet, their ability to dominate the paint led to a decisive rebounding advantage, with Arizona out-rebounding UConn 43-23 and claiming 16 second-chance points from 13 offensive rebounds.
“We got punked,” said UConn coach Dan Hurley. He expressed disappointment in his team’s performance, particularly in the physicality department. “There’s a street fight going on in the paint… you can’t stand on the periphery of the fight. We’ll see a lot of clips where guys were not in the fight with their teammates.”
Standout Performances Fuel Arizona’s Success
In place of Reed, Eric Reibe stepped up for UConn, scoring 15 points and hitting two crucial three-pointers in the second half. Nonetheless, Arizona’s frontcourt proved too formidable. Freshman sensation Peat finished the game with 16 points, 12 rebounds, three assists, and two blocks, further solidifying his status as one of the top newcomers in college basketball.
Coach Hurley praised Peat’s skill set and maturity on the court, stating, “He plays like a 10-year NBA vet. He knows his identity, he’s all over the glass.” Krivas contributed with 9 points and 14 rebounds, while Tobe Awaka added 7 points and 7 boards off the bench.
Bradley, who has been a clutch performer for Arizona this season, once again delivered when it mattered most. He finished the game with 21 points, including a crucial layup with just 16 seconds remaining that helped seal the victory. Lloyd highlighted Bradley’s ability to perform under pressure, noting, “When you have a point guard who is selfless… it’s pretty special.”
This victory positions Arizona as a strong contender for the top spot in the upcoming AP poll. The Wildcats have now secured wins against Florida, UCLA, and UConn, all of which occurred away from home. According to ESPN Research, Arizona is only the third team in AP poll history to achieve multiple victories over top-three opponents within its first five games, a feat not accomplished since the 1989-90 Kansas team.
With the season still in its early stages, both teams will be eager to build on this performance as they prepare for a competitive remainder of the campaign. The implications of this game extend beyond a single victory, potentially shaping the trajectories of both programs in the NCAA tournament landscape.
