Arizona Basketball: Pac-12 Championship Preview

Coming off of a potentially costly loss in the last game of the season to their arch nemesis, the pesky Sun Devils, the Cats have strung together two decisive victories, marching all the way to the PAC-12 championship game. 

Losing Josiah Turner to team violations has yet to stop their motor. Stepping in to fill the role has been Nick Johnson, who has dished out plenty more assists than shot attempts. 

Kyle Fogg has reclaimed the coveted senior role and seems to be demanding a little more attention with the ball. 

Brendon Lavender has continued his beyond-the-arc success and will need that to propel the Cats to an automatic bid. 

Jesse Perry—Couldn't have asked for a better presence underneath. He is bullying the defense and making headway with the easy putbacks, rebounds and jump shots. His range has dramatically improved, and if that isn't enough, how about going a career-best 9-9 from the line? If that isn't icing on the cake, then I don't know what is. 

Solomon Hill has just been as steady as a rock, playing the beat to his own drum. However, he has faltered at times, fouling out early last game. 

The Cats need to dig deep and reclaim themselves as the rightful owner to a bid for the Madness that is the month of March. 

The PAC-12 Championship is at 6:00 EST, and for the Cats it's win or go home if for they want any shot at an extension to their season

Colorado has come on strong in making moves to get to the championship, and the entire PAC-12 has looked strong of late. Although deemed a weak division this year, the newcomers have competed throughout and charged at the right time. It's up to the PAC-12's best defensive unit in the Wildcats to stop the surge before it's too late.

X Factor: Coming up big when needed most, Jordin Mayes will come into his own and dominate on offense and push the defense to greater heights. He needs to create a presence for himself and will need to attack at all opportunities. He will net 12 points today to accompany his eight assists. Down the stretch today, look for big plays from No. 20 

Final Score: The Wildcats will just be too much in the end, prevailing 67-62.