Three Wildcats Shine in Shocking Upset Over No. 3 Florida
The Arizona Wildcats opened their season in Las Vegas with a statement victory, knocking off No. 3 Florida 93–87 in an early-season clash of college basketball powerhouses. Both programs entered the matchup looking to start their campaigns strong, but it was No. 13 Arizona that stole the spotlight with its youth-driven performance.
Unlike previous years under head coach Tommy Lloyd, this Arizona team is built around a young core. The Wildcats welcomed seven true freshmen from a recruiting class ranked No. 2 nationally, according to 247Sports.
Arizona’s starting five featured point guard Jaden Bradley, guard Brayden Burries, guard/forward Ivan Kharchenkov, forward Koa Peat, and center Motiejus Krivas — a lineup that included three freshmen. Despite falling behind by double digits early, the Wildcats clawed back to stun the defending national champions and secure a statement win.
Following the thrilling upset, Arizona Wildcats on SI highlighted the top three players who fueled the victory.
Top Three Players
Ivan Kharchenkov
Entering the season, Kharchenkov was viewed as a talented but relatively unknown international prospect. However, his performances in exhibition games showcased his scoring ability, decision-making, and defensive versatility — all of which were on full display against Florida.
Kharchenkov notched a double-double in his collegiate debut, posting 12 points and 10 rebounds, while making key plays down the stretch. He went 3-for-9 from the field but was a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line and, impressively, committed no turnovers in his first official game. His poise and energy were critical in keeping Arizona in control late.
Jaden Bradley
Perhaps the most overlooked player entering the season, Jaden Bradley was left off all major preseason watch lists and the Big 12 All-Conference Team — a snub that seems even more questionable now. Lloyd had praised Bradley’s growth and leadership all offseason, and on opening night, the junior delivered a performance that may have been the best of his college career.
Bradley erupted for 27 points on 9-of-14 shooting, adding three rebounds and five assists. He caught fire in the second half, scoring 15 points after halftime. Each time Florida threatened to seize momentum, Bradley answered with timely buckets to keep the Wildcats ahead.
Koa Peat
The crown jewel of Arizona’s elite recruiting class, Koa Peat — who chose the Wildcats over Texas, Baylor, and Duke — erased any doubts about his readiness for college basketball. After an uneven preseason, the freshman forward exploded in his debut, showcasing the talent that made him one of the most coveted recruits in the nation.
Peat poured in 30 points on 11-of-18 shooting, while also collecting seven rebounds and five assists. Beyond his offensive dominance, he impacted the game defensively, recording one block and three steals. Peat set the tone from the opening tip, attacking the rim relentlessly and playing with confidence against Florida’s strong frontcourt.
Overall, this was a statement win for Arizona — a young, reloaded roster proving it belongs among the nation’s elite. On a national stage, the Wildcats’ freshmen looked fearless, signaling that Coach Lloyd’s squad could once again be a serious contender in college basketball’s upper tier.
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