Arizona Wildcats have maintained their unbeaten streak in the 2025-26 season, reaching a 15-0 record after a commanding 101-76 victory against Kansas State. This start marks their best performance since the 2013-14 season when they won the first 21 games. The team’s progress is notable compared to the same point last year when they stood at 9-5 but were beginning to gain momentum with five consecutive wins.
Coach Tommy Lloyd Reflects on Last Season and Team Growth
Following the win, head coach Tommy Lloyd expressed gratitude for the challenges faced last year, saying, “I’m thankful for what I went through last year. I think it made me a better coach.” Lloyd shared that the experience of a tough season helped steady the team and build resilience. He highlighted the strong performance of the current squad and praised both players and staff for their efforts. “This says a lot about our program,” he added, emphasizing a cautious optimism by stating they would reserve final judgment until the season concludes.
Lloyd also discussed the team’s playing style, noting their high scoring despite a low number of three-pointers. “When you make a lot of twos, they add up,” he said, pointing out the team’s efficient shooting inside the arc and from the free-throw line. He stressed the importance of a fast-paced game with many possessions as a key to reaching 100 points.
Player Highlights: Brayden Burries and Motiejus Krivas
Brayden Burries and Motiejus Krivas both achieved career-high scoring in the game. Coach Lloyd praised Burries as a motivated and disciplined player, noting his consistent winning attitude and maturity. “Brayden is not a guy you gotta poke and prod. I’m very direct with him, and he’s really learning,” Lloyd said. He also expressed confidence in Burries’ potential to improve further this season.
On Krivas, Lloyd remarked on his reliability and growth, especially in dealing with physical play. He acknowledged Krivas’ strong free-throw shooting and defensive improvements, describing him as a “real winner” with high character and self-motivation. Krivas himself attributed his scoring success to the team’s focus on establishing a strong presence inside the paint and noted the increased physicality with the start of Big 12 conference play.
Team Versatility and Strategy
Lloyd highlighted the defensive versatility of his players, mentioning Ivan Kharchenkov, Dwayne, and Tobe as capable of guarding multiple positions. He explained that this flexibility allows the team to adjust coverage and make strategic switches during games. On Kharchenkov, Lloyd spoke about his development into a defensive stopper and a well-rounded player with the potential for high-scoring games.
Coach Lloyd also addressed a technical foul called on Koa Peat, attributing it to an overly enthusiastic celebration. He stressed the importance of respectful conduct and celebrating with teammates rather than opponents.
Regarding the team’s shooting from beyond the arc, Lloyd said there was no cause for concern despite making only three out of sixteen three-point attempts. He emphasized the team’s ability to capitalize on bonus opportunities through physical play and free throws.
Looking ahead, Lloyd acknowledged the challenges of maintaining player freshness through a demanding season and mentioned ongoing efforts to monitor practice, conditioning, and recovery. He also expressed respect for upcoming opponents, particularly TCU and their coach Jamie Dixon, anticipating a competitive match without overemphasising past results.
Brayden Burries reflected on his own development, attributing his improvement to gaining experience and adjusting to the game’s speed. He also highlighted the support from his teammates, especially on defence and rebounding, which has helped ease his role on the perimeter.
The Arizona Wildcats continue to demonstrate strong teamwork, resilience, and adaptability as they aim to maintain their unbeaten streak and achieve success throughout the season.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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