Arizona's Non-Conference Schedule: A Blend of Challenges and Opportunities
The Arizona Wildcats are gearing up for an exciting season, fresh off a Sweet 16 appearance and with a renewed sense of momentum. Head coach Tommy Lloyd, in his fifth year at the helm, has crafted a non-conference schedule that promises both early challenges and opportunities for team development. This carefully curated lineup of games will test the Wildcats' mettle and help them build chemistry as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Here's a breakdown of Arizona's 2025-2026 non-conference schedule, featuring a mix of familiar foes and new challenges.
November 3: Florida (Las Vegas)
The Wildcats kick off their season in style, facing the defending national champion Florida Gators in Las Vegas. This marks their first meeting since 2012, and with both teams boasting strong lineups, it's a true test of Arizona's early-season readiness. The series is tied at 2-2, making this game a potential tiebreaker and a must-win for both sides.
November 7: Utah Tech (Home)
Returning to the familiar McKale Center, the Wildcats take on Utah Tech in their home opener. This is a first-time meeting between the two programs, and Utah Tech, a Division I newcomer, will be eager to make a statement. Arizona's size, tempo, and experience will be key factors in this game.
November 11: Northern Arizona (Home)
In a classic in-state showdown, the Wildcats host Northern Arizona in Week 2. This game serves as a potential trap, and Arizona must stay focused to avoid an upset. It's an opportunity to fine-tune rotations and strategy before tougher opponents.
November 14: UCLA (Los Angeles)
A trip to Los Angeles awaits as the Wildcats face their old Pac-12 rivals, UCLA. The Bruins edged Arizona in their last meeting, and this 115th installment of the series promises an emotional and intriguing contest. The Wildcats will be looking to even the score and showcase their early-season progress.
November 19: UConn (Road)
One of the season's most anticipated non-conference matchups sees the Wildcats travel to Storrs to face Dan Hurley's UConn Huskies. This is only the second meeting between these national powers, with UConn winning the first in 2011. A win here could set the tone for Arizona's season, providing a crucial measuring stick before December.
November 24: University of Denver (Home)
Back on home court, Arizona welcomes the Denver Pioneers. The Wildcats' depth and transition offense will be key to controlling the pace of this game, and it's an opportunity to build confidence before a challenging road trip.
November 29: Norfolk State (Home)
In their final November game, the Wildcats take on Norfolk State, a scrappy team that will provide a solid test for Arizona's defense. This game allows Lloyd's squad to experiment with younger players and refine their strategy before the December marquee matchups.
December 13: Alabama (Birmingham)
A neutral-site game in Birmingham awaits as the Wildcats face the Alabama Crimson Tide. Arizona won their last meeting, but Alabama leads the all-time series. With a potentially pro-Tide crowd, this game could be a statement-maker for the Wildcats' frontcourt depth.
December 16: Abilene Christian (Home)
Back at McKale Center, Arizona hosts Abilene Christian, providing a high-energy atmosphere. This game offers a reset opportunity between tougher contests, allowing Lloyd's team to regroup and refocus.
December 20: San Diego State (Phoenix)
Two Western Conference powerhouses meet in Phoenix for the 33rd time. Arizona has dominated this series, holding a 25-7 lead, including a 17-point win in 2022. The Wildcats' fans will bring the energy, creating a home-field advantage in what promises to be an electric atmosphere.
December 22: Bethune-Cookman (Home)
Just before the holidays, Bethune-Cookman visits Tucson. This game is expected to be a comfortable win for Arizona, providing an opportunity to experiment with late-game rotations and defensive strategies.
December 29: South Dakota State (Home)
Closing out their non-conference schedule, the Wildcats host South Dakota State, a team known for its disciplined offense and three-point shooting. This game serves as a final tune-up before the start of Big 12 play, allowing Arizona to refine their skills and strategy.
Tough Tests and Big Opportunities
Arizona's non-conference schedule is a well-rounded blend of challenges and opportunities. It features a national-title-caliber opener, road and neutral-site tests, regional rivalries, and a variety of games that will help the Wildcats develop depth and strategy.
By the time Big 12 play begins, Tommy Lloyd's Wildcats should be battle-ready, having faced a diverse range of opponents and learned valuable lessons from each game. This carefully crafted schedule will set the stage for a successful season, with the team poised to make a strong run at the title.
