Arizona Wildcats to Host Embry-Riddle in Final Exhibition with Key Players Expected to Return
TUCSON, Ariz. – The Arizona Wildcats men’s basketball team will host Embry-Riddle in their final exhibition game on Nov. 6, offering a crucial prospect to refine their lineup and address areas for betterment before the nov. 3 season opener against defending NCAA champion Florida in Las Vegas.
Several players who missed the first exhibition against Saint Mary’s are anticipated to be available. Forward kylan Boswell is expected to play after sitting out the previous game. Freshman wing As, who experienced delays arriving in the US due to visa issues, is also expected to be part of the frontcourt rotation.
Boswell’s return will provide more versatility in the frontcourt,alongside junior centre Motiejs Krivas,who earned a starting spot in boswell’s absence and delivered a strong performance with 11 points,17 rebounds,and two blocks in 33 minutes against Saint Mary’s. Freshman Koa Pea also saw significant frontcourt minutes. Freshmen Dwayne Aristode and Ivan Kharchenkov will look to contribute, though they combined for only one rebound in 44 minutes played against Saint Mary’s.
The exhibition will also likely provide increased playing time for freshman guard Bryce James, who generated significant crowd enthusiasm during his 92-second appearance against Saint Mary’s, culminating in a made free throw.
Given Embry-Riddle’s lack of size – no player taller than 6-foot-7 – arizona is expected to control the boards and find scoring opportunities inside. However, the Wildcats will likely focus on improving their 3-point shooting after a 4-of-16 performance against Saint Mary’s. Anthony Dell’Orso went 1 for 7 from beyond the arc, while Jaden bradley was 2 for 2 and evan Nelson 1 for 2. The remainder of the team went 0 for 5.
The game also presents an opportunity to improve free throw shooting, an area where Arizona struggled in the first exhibition, going 13 of 25. Freshmen Peat and Brayden Burries both missed all five of their free throw attempts.Embry-Riddle may need to foul frequently to contain Arizona’s inside scoring, providing additional practice opportunities at the free throw line.
