Sweet Science Sports | 2026–27 College Basketball Preview
Arizona enters the 2026–27 season looking to build on one of the strongest campaigns in program history.
The Wildcats finished 36–3 last season, winning the Big 12 regular-season and tournament championships before falling to eventual national champion Michigan in the Final Four.
Tommy Lloyd has established a winning program, but Arizona must replace several important contributors.
Krivas Provides the Foundation
Senior center Motiejus Krivas returns as one of college basketball's strongest interior defenders.
The 7-foot-2 center averaged 10.4 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.9 blocks last season, earning First Team All-Big 12 recognition.
Krivas enters the season as the Big 12 Preseason Player of the Year and our selection as Arizona's best player.
Ivan Kharchenkov provides athleticism and perimeter defense, while freshmen Caleb Holt and Cameron Holmes bring considerable potential.
North Carolina transfer Derek Dixon adds backcourt scoring and playmaking.
UCLA Exposes Early Weaknesses
Arizona's season began with an 84–75 loss to No. 22 UCLA on November 2.
Kharchenkov delivered a tremendous performance, scoring 38 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.
But the Wildcats struggled offensively throughout the first half, falling behind by 14 at halftime.
The loss revealed concerns about offensive balance and perimeter shooting. Arizona cannot depend on one player to carry its scoring against elite competition.
Forward RJ Godfrey's eligibility situation also complicates the frontcourt rotation.
Eleven Games Against AP Top 25 Opponents
| Opponent | AP Rank | Games |
|---|---|---|
| UConn | #4 | 1 |
| Houston | #10 | 2 |
| Arkansas | #12 | 1 |
| St. John's | #13 | 1 |
| Kansas | #17 | 1 |
| Iowa State | #18 | 1 |
| Texas Tech | #19 | 1 |
| UCLA | #22 | 1 |
| BYU | #25 | 2 |
| Total | 11 |
Average Ranked Opponent: No. 15.9
The November 2 UCLA game is included in this preseason schedule measure.
Additional ranked opposition is possible during the Maui Invitational.
Can Arizona Win the Big 12?
Yes. Arizona is the preseason conference favorite.
The Wildcats finished atop both the Big 12 coaches' and media polls, ahead of Houston, Kansas and Iowa State.
Krivas gives Arizona defensive stability, while Kharchenkov provides an emerging offensive threat.
But the Wildcats must improve their shooting, establish better offensive balance and develop their younger players.
S³ Season Projection
| Category | Prediction |
|---|---|
| Proposed Record | 26–6 |
| Big 12 Record | 15–3 |
| Best Player | Motiejus Krivas |
| Biggest X-Factor | Ivan Kharchenkov |
| Ranked Games | 11 |
| Average Ranked Opponent | #15.9 |
| Big 12 Championship | Favorite |
| Expected NCAA Finish | Elite Eight |
| Tournament Ceiling | Final Four |
| Additional Upside | National title-game appearance |
| Possible Downside | Sweet 16 |
S³ Final Word
Arizona possesses the coaching, interior defense and talent necessary to challenge for another Big 12 championship.
But its opening loss to UCLA demonstrates why preseason rankings must be tested by actual performance.
The Wildcats have significant potential, but that potential must translate into consistent offensive execution.
S³ projects Arizona to finish 26–6 and advance to the Elite Eight, with another Final Four appearance within reach.
S³ Prediction: 26–6 | Elite Eight | Final Four Ceiling.
Rank the team, not the reputation.
