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 in Tucson, has crafted a non-conference schedule that promises to be both demanding and rewarding. This carefully curated lineup offers a unique blend of early challenges and opportunities to build team chemistry.
Here's a breakdown of the Wildcats' 2025-2026 non-conference slate, featuring a mix of familiar foes and new opponents.
November 3 - Florida (Las Vegas)
The season kicks off with a bang as Arizona takes on the defending national champion, Florida, in Las Vegas. This marks the first meeting between the two programs since 2012, and with both teams boasting impressive talent, it's a true test of mettle. The all-time series is tied at 2-2, making this clash a potential tiebreaker. Get ready for an intense showdown!
November 7 - Utah Tech (Home)
The Wildcats return to the familiar McKale Center for their home opener against Utah Tech. This is a first-ever meeting between the two programs, and Utah Tech, still establishing itself at the Division I level, will face a formidable Arizona squad with size, tempo, and experience on its side.
November 11 - Northern Arizona (Home)
An early in-state showdown awaits as Arizona hosts Northern Arizona. This game sets the stage for a classic 'trap game' scenario, allowing the Wildcats to fine-tune their rotations before tougher opponents. Stay focused, Arizona fans, as this one could be a potential letdown if not handled with care.
November 14 - UCLA (Los Angeles)
Old Pac-12 rivals, UCLA and Arizona, will renew their rivalry as non-conference foes. UCLA's recent victory in their last meeting leaves them with a 64-50 series lead. This 115th installment promises an electric atmosphere and early-season intrigue as these historic programs clash in Los Angeles.
November 19 - UConn (Road)
One of the season's biggest non-conference tests awaits in Storrs. Arizona will face off against Dan Hurley's UConn squad, a rare meeting between two national powerhouses. With UConn holding a slight edge in their all-time series (1-0), this game could serve as a crucial measuring stick for the Wildcats before December.
November 24 - University of Denver (Home)
After a challenging road trip, the Wildcats return home to host the Denver Pioneers. Arizona's depth and transition offense will be key to controlling the tempo in this match.
November 29 - Norfolk State (Home)
Norfolk State provides an opportunity for the Wildcats to sharpen their defensive skills and give younger players valuable minutes. This game is a crucial part of Arizona's preparation for the upcoming December stretch.
December 13 - Alabama (Birmingham)
In a neutral-site game that's sure to attract national attention, the Wildcats travel to Birmingham to face the Crimson Tide. Arizona's frontcourt depth could be the key to a potential statement win, despite the Tide's home-court advantage.
December 16 - Abilene Christian (Home)
Back at the McKale Center, Arizona welcomes Abilene Christian, creating a high-energy atmosphere. This game provides an opportunity to reset and prepare for the upcoming challenges.
December 20 - San Diego State (Phoenix)
Two familiar Western programs, Arizona and San Diego State, will meet for the 33rd time, this time in Phoenix. Arizona's dominance in the all-time series (25-7) and a 17-point win in 2022 suggest a strong showing from the Wildcats.
December 22 - Bethune-Cookman (Home)
Just before the holidays, Bethune-Cookman visits Tucson. Expect a comfortable Arizona win, but this game will be an opportunity to refine late-game strategies and defensive tactics.
December 29 - South Dakota State (Home)
The Wildcats close their non-conference slate with South Dakota State, known for their disciplined offense and three-point shooting. This game serves as a solid final tune-up before the start of Big 12 play.
Tough Tests and Big Opportunities
Arizona's non-conference schedule is a well-rounded challenge, offering a national-title-caliber opener, road and neutral-site tests, regional rivalries, and opportunities to develop depth. By the time Big 12 play begins, Tommy Lloyd's Wildcats will be battle-ready, having faced a variety of tests and learned valuable lessons along the way.
