Arizona’s shock o’ meter continues to run, um, full.
Florida gone.
UCLA done.
And now No. 3 Connecticut in the books after UA took care of the Huskies 71-67 in Storrs, Conn.
Tough schedule? What tough schedule? I kid, of course, because Arizona has done the work to move to 5-0.
It’s the first time since 1989 that a team has beaten at least two top three teams early in the season.
Before we move forward with this, it does come with an asterisk: UConn played without a bona fide big-man star Tarris Reed, who is averaging 20 points a game. Arizona dominated the boards 43-23
But, hey, let’s move on from that. Winning on the road isn’t easy … ever and in any condition.
“Awesome, awesome game, awesome atmosphere,” Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd said on this post game radio show. “…Our guys did a great job and that’s how you play on the road. You stay steady.”
Impressive to be sure. Arizona can only beat the teams on the schedule – circumstances or no circumstance.
Clearly, after Wednesday night’s big win – across country, no less – Arizona’s growth spurt continues, but doesn’t it help when you have a guy like Jaden Bradley hitting big shots and leading the way. He did it again – in back-to-back games – by scoring 21 points. He had a key basket with about 16 seconds to help Arizona secure the win.
He’s now scored 27 points vs. Florida,
Fifteen against UCLA.
And now 21 vs. the Huskies. Every point mattered.
He reminds me a lot of Jason Terry back in 1999, when JT had to do what he could to keep Arizona afloat or win.
“Proud of this guy next to me,” Lloyd told reporters in Storrs, patting Bradley on the arm. “So, steady. … it’s really impressive what he’s done this past month. He’s literally a rock star.”
He wasn’t alone – of course – given Mo Krivas had nine points and a career-high 14 rebounds. And Koa Peat returned to form with some timely baskets, finishing with 16 points and 12 rebounds. It’s his first double-double of what could be many more.
Still, Lloyd said “we caught a break” with Reed being out. Let’s be honest, that kid is really good and we caught a break. I would have loved to (them) with him but, you know, when you get a good hop, take advantage of it.”
Arizona did, handing UConn only its seventh loss at home in the last five years.
“That’s amazing,” Lloyd said. “What a cool place to play and a great experience.”
Especially when you leave with a victory.
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