Arizona rolls in NCAA opener

Arizona Wildcats Basketball

NCAA Tournament


The Arizona Wildcats had an easy time of it in their NCAA Tournament opener today in Portland.

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson poured in 23 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, while Stanley Johnson added 22 points as the Wildcats cruised to a 93-72 win over Texas Southern. Five players scored in double figures for Arizona with Brandon Ashley, Kaleb Tarczewski and T.J. McConnell scoring 14, 13 and 12 points, respectively.

Arizona (32-3) led at the end of the first half 54-33 and held a 27-point lead at one point in the second half. The Wildcats out rebounded Texas Southern, 35-19.

There was room for improvement as the Wildcats weren't at their best defensively and coach Sean Miller expects that will change as Arizona moves on to the round of 32. The Wildcats will take on the winner of the VCU-Ohio State matchup (slated for later today) on Saturday in Portland with the winner advancing to the Sweet Sixteen.

Way to go, Wildcats!