Until the Arizona Wildcats learn to play for all 40 minutes and not just the second half, they are going to struggle in conference play, even if the Pac-12 is having its worst year in history. The UA tried to overcome an early 12 point deficit against the Oregon Ducks, but it was ultimately not enough as they fell 59-57. After winning 22 straight home games, the team has now lost two of their last eight games at the McKale Center.
Solomon Hill had a big second half and ended with 16 points, seven rebounds, two assists, two steals and a block. Freshman point guard Josiah Turner played well for most of the afternoon and scored a career-high 11 points, but made some questionable decisions in the closing minutes. After recording 18 points on Thursday, Brendon Lavender did not score.
Arizona held a brief 56-54 lead with 2:59 remaining, but they would only make one free throw the rest of the way. Oregon simply executed better down the stretch and won because of it. With just a few seconds remaining, the Wildcats had a chance to win, but Lavender missed a deep attempt from behind the arc and Kyle Fogg saw a mid-range floater rim out.
It appears March Madness is now out of the question unless the team wins the conference tournament. Yes, this is a young team, but a loss at home is simply unacceptable.
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