Tommy Lloyd’s Comments After Arizona’s NCAA Tournament Victory Over Akron
The Arizona Wildcats dominated Akron, securing a spot in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.
Tommy Lloyd, with years of experience as both an assistant coach at Gonzaga and now as head coach at Arizona, knows the unpredictability of March Madness all too well.
For the third time in four years, his Arizona team (23-12) advanced to the round of 32 after a decisive 93-65 victory over No. 13 seed Liberty in Seattle on Friday. Arizona will face the winner of Oregon vs. Liberty on Sunday in the next round.
The Wildcats used their size advantage to control the game, out-rebounding Akron 53-22 and dominating the paint with a 48-20 advantage. Jaden Bradley led Arizona with 19 points and 6 rebounds, while Trey Townsend added 16 points and 8 rebounds. Freshman Carter Bryant also impressed with 12 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 blocks.
Here’s what Lloyd had to say following the win:
Lloyd on the game
“First, I want to congratulate Akron on a great season. Coach (John) Groce does a fantastic job. We’re fortunate to come out on the right side of this one. These games are always stressful, and as someone who has been in 26 first-round games, I know exactly how those teams feel. Whether you’re seeded high or low, it’s always tough.
Our mantra was simple: we threw the seeds out the window. Both teams earned their spot here, and we had a job to do. Our guys were in a great emotional spot – not too high, not too low. We started strong with three quick threes, which was a great beginning.
But I knew Akron would respond, and they did. After some early turnovers in the first half, I thought we played exceptionally well. Credit to the players and coaching staff for their preparation. I’m thankful for everyone’s contributions, and I’m excited to see who we play next.”
Lloyd on Arizona’s Offensive Play
“It was a fantastic offensive performance, but I’m not putting any limits on our team. I challenged them before the game to outrebound Akron by 15, and we ended up doing it by 31. That gives us a big margin for error when we control the boards like that.
To make that happen, we need to force misses, and when they do miss, our guys have to expect it and pursue the rebounds. The effort was phenomenal. We had a great defensive performance, possibly the tightest we’ve played all season against a team like Akron. Our defensive schemes and switches were executed very well.”
Lloyd on How the Big 12 Prepared Arizona
“The Big 12 challenge was tough, but it was also a great experience. It made me a better coach, and I think it made our players better too. Each of the guys here – KJ Lewis, Carter Bryant, Trey Townsend – had their struggles throughout the season, but they’ve grown so much.
For them to step up in a big moment like this shows their development. I’m proud of them. As a coach, you want your players to improve, and seeing them shine tonight was special.”
Lloyd on Jaden Bradley’s 3-Point Shooting
“Jaden and KJ have worked on their three-point shooting, and I have full confidence in them. I want them to feel comfortable taking those shots when the moment is right, but not feel pressured to shoot them constantly.
If they can step up and make a few threes, it adds another dimension to our game. Teams are choosing not to guard them closely, and that’s risky – you can’t give up open shots in important moments. Both are smart players who know how to drive and play offense. Jaden and KJ handled the game well, despite a minor travel violation from KJ early on.”
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