As the echoes of “Bear Down, Arizona! Bear Down, red and blue!” reverberate through University of Arizona’s arenas, the Wildcats’ athletic teams are making a significant mark. November has been a standout month for the university’s football, men’s, and women’s basketball teams, with each squad maintaining an undefeated record and defeating high-profile opponents.
Beyond the playing fields and courts, the University of Arizona has secured a groundbreaking naming rights agreement with Casino Del Sol, valued at over $60 million, marking the largest deal in Big 12 Conference history. Additionally, Arizona Athletics celebrated a record graduation success rate, with a 92% score as reported by the NCAA, setting a new benchmark for the fourth consecutive year.
“November showcased the very best of what it means to be a Wildcat,” remarked R. Ken Coit Director of Athletics, Desireé Reed-Francois. “Our student-athletes, coaches and staff continue to raise the bar – competitively, academically, and in how we serve this community.”
Football Triumphs in the Territorial Cup
Starting November with a 5-3 record, Arizona’s football team, under head coach Brent Brennan, faced a challenging path to bowl eligibility. The Wildcats rebounded from two narrow defeats, thanks to a staunch defense led by Danny Gonzales, limiting opponents to just 17 points per game. Their offense, spearheaded by Seth Doege and quarterback Noah Fifita, averaged 34 points across five games.
The Wildcats capped off the month by reclaiming the Territorial Cup with a decisive 23-7 win against Arizona State, bringing their series lead to 52-45-1. This victory marked their first perfect November, securing a spot in both the College Football Playoff Top 25 and the Associated Press Top 25.
Men’s Basketball Surges to No. 2
Tommy Lloyd’s men’s basketball team made a strong statement by defeating last year’s national champions, the Florida Gators, in Las Vegas. Freshman Koa Peat and senior Jaden Bradley were instrumental, contributing 30 and 27 points respectively.
Subsequent victories over No. 15 UCLA and No. 3 Connecticut further propelled the Wildcats to a No. 2 ranking, 11 places above their preseason position. With aspirations for a prominent March Madness performance, the Wildcats’ early season success has set a promising tone.
Women’s Basketball Exceeds Expectations
Head coach Becky Burke has transformed Arizona’s women’s basketball team, defying preseason predictions that ranked them 14th in the Big 12. The Wildcats have thrived under Burke’s leadership, boasting a 6-0 start and a 15-point average margin of victory.
Key players like Mickayla Perdue and Noelani Cornfield have been pivotal, with Perdue averaging 17.7 points and Cornfield leading with 8.3 assists per game, ranking third nationally. The Wildcats are among the five undefeated teams in their conference.
Additional Fall Achievements
Arizona’s women’s triathlon team celebrated a second consecutive national championship, while head coach Wes Johnson earned national coach of the year honors. Individually, Kelly Wetteland secured the national championship title.
Men’s cross country athlete Evans Tanui made a standout NCAA Championships appearance, placing 44th out of over 250 competitors, marking Arizona’s first presence at the national meet in a decade.
Looking Ahead
The Wildcats’ football team, holding a 9-3 record, awaits its bowl game destination. Meanwhile, Arizona’s basketball teams prepare for Big 12 play with upcoming non-conference matchups against Auburn, Alabama, and San Diego State.
In volleyball, Arizona will compete in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2018, facing South Dakota State in their opening match.
As the Wildcats continue their impressive performances, the chant of “Bear Down, Arizona” resounds with unwavering spirit among fans.
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