Arizona Freshmen Shine in NCAA Tournament Win

0:00On March 20, Arizona Wildcats rolled to a 92-58 win over 16 seated Long Island University in the first round of the NCAA tournament. Their freshmen stole the show, with Braden Berries, Ivan Karchenkoff, Koa Pete, Duane Aristoday, and City Guay combining for 55 points 28 rebounds, 7 assists, and 4 blocks. As the first time in 26 years, Arizona started three freshmen in a tournament game, echoing the 2001 group that reached the national championship. This young core gets over 50% of the team scoring this season, the most since the 2019-20 squad. Coach Tommy Lloyd praised the freshmen for their smarts, work ethic, and poise, saying they played without a hint of nerves. They shot an impressive 20 of 31 from the field, including 5 of 7 from 3 point range. Arizona dominated the glass too, pulling down 52 rebounds for a plus 2-1 edge. Karchenkoff posted a career high 10 boards in a double double, while the team grabbed 16 offensive rebounds leading to 22 second chance points.

1:09Fans packed the Aja Serena in San Diego, turning it into Wildcat territory with strong local support from alumni dating back to the Loot Olsen era. As these freshmen gear up for the next round, they're savoring every moment of their tournament spotlight.