Back court: UW freshman Isaiah Thomas is an explosive playmaker. Despite his size (5-foot-8) the point guard makes it his priority to penetrate to the basket and reach the free throw line, á la Jerryd Bayless. A normal zone defense would collapse down low, giving better shot opportunities around the perimeter. It’ll come down to whether the Wildcats can rotate quickly enough on defense to contain the arc.
Advantage: Arizona
Front court: The only matchup more exciting than Nic Wise vs. Thomas will be Jordan Hill against Jon Brockman in the post. For the past two years, Brockman has gotten the collective season advantage. But this is a new Hill with more dynamic ways of scoring, whether it’s a mid-range jumper or a back door feed. However, Hill must cut down on turnovers, as must the rest of the Wildcats.
Advantage: Washington
Bench: If Arizona’s bench can show up like it did Saturday against Houston, the Wildcats should edge the Huskies. More specifically, Arizona needs the freshman guards – Kyle Fogg, Garland Judkins and Brendon Lavender – to be on their best games defensively to contain Thomas.
Advantage: Arizona
Intangibles: It’s tough to favor the visiting team in McKale Center this season, but the Huskies are white hot and not overlooking the front end of their Arizona road trip, despite a down season in Tucson. When asked about the Wildcats, Thomas said “”Arizona, even though they’re not having a great season, they’re a scary team.”” No trap game here.
Advantage: Washington
Final score: Washington 65, Arizona 57
