Arizona always plays well in Hec Ed for some reason. They’ve shot the lights out against in each of the past four years, at least. Don’t know if it’s the style of defense we play against them or what, but whatever it is, it doesn’t work.

The X-factor for Arizona is Derrick Williams.

In the first meeting between these teams, Williams went for 12-and-9. In four of the five games AFTER that meeting, he scored 20+ points. In two of the five, he hauled in double-digit boards.

Williams is playing at an extremely high level right now, and arguably a higher level than when we first played Arizona.

The Huskies are going to need the three-headed monster (MBA, Breshers, and Gant) to really step up their performance in the paint on defense and contain this guy. On offense, they need to do what they can to go right at Williams (he’s only 6’8″, so no height advantage there) and force him to commit fouls.

Double-teaming in the post, as Josh alluded to in his piece, is an option, and Williams isn’t much of a passer so he might not be able to find those kick-outs when he runs into trouble. But the Wildcats are so good on the perimeter that doubling down could be troublesome for the Dawgs. I’d expect more of a straight-up man, pressure high from the guards, and try to force steals on the dribble rather than in the passing lanes.

…..just as long as Justin keeps his role in mind at all times. He is there for passing and defense…..not offense.