For the second game in a row, the Arizona Wildcats needed a big second half in order to get past a quality mid-major opponent. Thanks to huge performances from Jordin Mayes and Jesse Perry, UA came away with a 67-59 victory over the Duquesne Dukes.
Mayes, for the second night in a row, stole the show in the second half and hit three huge three-pointers that changed the complexity of the game. He finished the evening with a career-high 19 points and will likely continue to start over Josiah Turner, who is still learning the college game.
Perry recorded his second double-double in as many games and continues to be a solid force in the paint for the Wildcats. Sean Miller praised Perry in his post-game interview and called the strides he has made since joining the team last season "remarkable".
Angelo Chol did not start the game, though he played in favor of Kyryl Natyazhko throughout most of the contest. Chol finished with six points and eight rebounds and was able to disrupt multiple shots around the basket. He may not start in the next game, but one has to believe he will be the starting center sooner rather than later.
Arizona trailed 32-30 at halftime and the two teams were evenly matchup until midway through the second half. Brendon Lavender ignited a rally with a three pointer and the 'Cats did not look back after that. The game certainly wasn't pretty for all 40 minutes, but this team continues to improve and the potential is there.
The next time Arizona will take the court will be Sunday afternoon against Ball State. Tipoff is set for 4 p.m. from Tucson.