The University of Arizona women\u2019s basketball team (9-3, 1-0 in Big 12) looks to bounce back in conference play on the road against the Colorado Buffaloes (9-4, 1-0 in Big 12) on Wednesday, Dec. 31.<\/p>\n
Recent Performance<\/p>\n
Arizona plays their first game since their narrow 63-62 loss to the University of Utah in the opening round of Big 12 conference play on Dec. 22. The Wildcats will try to build on the momentum they created during the fourth quarter of that game, closing with an impressive 11-2 scoring run.<\/p>\n
Head coach Becky Burke emphasized to her team the importance of playing all four quarters with focus and discipline, pointing out that lapses occurred during various stretches of the Utah game.<\/p>\n
\u201cUnfortunately, it\u2019s not a 30\u2011minute game. It\u2019s a 40\u2011minute game, so we need to lock in,\u201d said Burke after the Utah loss. She also expressed pride in the team\u2019s progress, but stressed that everything matters, especially in close conference contests.<\/p>\n
For Arizona, maintaining a fast-paced, team-oriented style of basketball throughout the game will be crucial if they want to achieve success under Coach Burke\u2019s guidance.<\/p>\n
Arizona this season<\/p>\n
Arizona enters the matchup relying on a high-octane offense led by veteran guard Mickayla Perdue, who has consistently delivered as the team\u2019s top scoring option. Perdue is averaging 17.8 points per game, establishing herself as one of the premier perimeter threats in the Big 12.<\/p>\n
Experienced guard Noelani Cornfield has become the Wildcats\u2019 primary facilitator, averaging over eight assists per game. Cornfield anchors Arizona\u2019s half-court offense by distributing the ball to shooters around the court, reinforcing Coach Burke\u2019s pace-and-space philosophy.<\/p>\n
Colorado this season<\/p>\n
Colorado has developed a balanced lineup characterized by strong physicality and a dominant presence in the paint. The Buffaloes are averaging 69.9 points per game while holding opponents to just 59.1, utilizing their big forwards to excel on the boards. Colorado leads the Big 12 in rebounding with an average of 38.7 per game, which helps them limit second-chance opportunities for their opponents and secure additional possessions for themselves.<\/p>\n
The Buffaloes have enjoyed sustained success this season by starting games aggressively and controlling the tempo, compelling their opponents to adapt to Colorado\u2019s style. However, despite their strong performances, Colorado lacks a dominant scoring option.<\/p>\n
Keys to the game<\/p>\n
Arizona\u2019s defense, especially rebounding, will face a significant challenge against Colorado\u2019s physical frontcourt. It is essential for the Wildcats to begin the game with energy and decisiveness, spreading the defense out and knocking down jumpers before the defense can get set. On defense, if Coach Burke\u2019s guard-heavy lineup can force the Buffaloes into taking long jump shots, it should favor Arizona. On the contrary, Arizona\u2019s speed and perimeter shooting will be key to generating open looks before Colorado\u2019s defense gets set, which could provide a significant edge for the Wildcats on offense.<\/p>\n
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