The No. 2-ranked Arizona Wildcats are set to face Norfolk State on March 2, 2024, at McKale Center, with the goal of preserving their undefeated record. Currently standing at 6-0, the Wildcats recently secured a dominant 103-73 victory over the Denver Pioneers, showcasing their strength in rebounding and scoring. Arizona outperformed Denver, grabbing 50 rebounds to the Pioneers’ 29 and significantly outscoring them in the paint, with a tally of 50-22. As the team prepares for their upcoming match, attention is drawn to several key players poised to make an impact against the Spartans.
Players to Watch
Brayden Burries has emerged as a significant contributor for the Wildcats. In the previous game, the shooting guard showcased his scoring ability, finishing with 20 points on 7-of-13 shooting, including 3-of-6 from beyond the arc. This marked a notable improvement from earlier games, where the five-star freshman averaged just 6 points with a field goal percentage of 34.7%. Burries’ recent performances indicate a growing confidence, raising the question of whether he can maintain this form against tougher competition.
Another player to keep an eye on is Dwayne Aristode. The forward received extended playing time against Denver, logging 23 minutes, during which he scored 17 points on 6-of-11 shooting, including 4-of-8 from three-point range. Aristode also collected five rebounds, contributing to Arizona’s dominance in the paint. Prior to this, he had limited opportunities, playing only 9 minutes in the two games before. With increased minutes, Aristode has the potential to display the scoring talent that led Arizona to recruit him.
Koa Peat, another standout freshman, has already made a name for himself on both ends of the court. At 6 feet 8 inches and weighing 235 pounds, he has proven capable of competing with higher-ranked teams. Peat’s statistics against ranked opponents are impressive, averaging 17.7 points and 7.7 rebounds while maintaining a low turnover rate of just three. His performance against Norfolk State will be critical as he continues to demonstrate why he was such a highly sought-after recruit.
As the Wildcats gear up for their matchup, fans are eager to see which players will shine. The team’s blend of emerging talent and experienced athletes will be crucial in maintaining their perfect record.
For updates on the game and to share your thoughts on which players to watch, follow the Wildcats on social media.
