Wildcats keep the undefeated train rolling with BIG 12 opener in Utah.
The highly anticipated BIG 12 opener for the Arizona Wildcats on the road to Utah. The Wildcats went into hostile territory and made a statement. Almost like being on tour, Arizona puts on a show in any arena and upholds the standard they are being held to.
From the opening tip, the Wildcats controlled the pace and imposed their will on Utah.
The Wildcats defense put the pressure on and the offensive scoring was very efficient.
Utah had scored their first shot of the game and after that Arizona went on a 14-2 strong run that set the tone for the rest of the game.
Arizona's offense shot a wild 53-percent from the field for the entirety of the game.
Utah was out rebounded on the glass 30 to 43 of the Wildcat rebounds. This stat seemed to be a big reason the Utes could not come back into the game.
Tobe Awaka the senior forward for Arizona got his third double-double of the season with 18 points and 12 rebounds, leading the way for the Wildcats. Awake created multiple second chance opportunities with his physical play in the paint.
Arizona's point guard Jaden Bradley matched Awaka's 18 points and showcased his ability to be the general on the court.
The Wildcats showed off their offensive balance, having five players all in the double digits scoring. This made it the ninth consecutive game Arizona had these many players with double digits.
Utah was not all bad, guard Terrance Brown led the team with 26 points and at times kept the Utes in the game with his aggressive and physical play style.
In the first half the Wildcats had a commanding lead 58-39, created by smart ball movement and hot shooting. In the opening 20 minutes of play Arizona hit nine of their final ten shots.
The second half Utah made a few positive runs and at one point were able to pull within 15 points of the Wildcats.
Scoring ability and rebounding for Arizona was just to much for Utah to get any closer, never allowing a true threatened comeback.
The Wildcats would end up winning on the road in dominate fashion, 97-78 victory.
Was a sad start for Utah in their BIG12 opener but in their defense, many teams will soon end in the same result after playing Arizona it seems.