A Rocky Start
Just days earlier the Arizona Wildcats had been humbled 99-88 by Lithuania’s B side, a loss that exposed early‑season growing pains and raised questions about chemistry and execution.
Rebounding Against Ukraine
On Thursday, Aug. 20, the Wildcats never trailed, building a lead that stretched throughout the contest and never looking back.
Key Contributions
Ivan Kharchenkov paced the scoring with 24 points, even while limited to brief stretches in the fourth quarter because of an ankle injury, while Krivas returned from a foot problem to contribute 15 minutes of solid play.
Off‑Court Hurdles
The victory also came amid off‑court challenges: RJ Godfrey remains suspended by the NCAA after a four‑game ban for participating in a professional contract and an all‑star game, while Mabil Mawut was unable to travel due to visa complications as a South Sudanese native.
Coach Tommy Lloyd praised the collective response, noting that the team’s ability to rally around each other was a decisive factor in turning the tide.
Veteran Derek Dixon added 18 points and four assists, and Caleb Holt finished with 15 points on a 5‑for‑17 effort, illustrating the depth that spread across the roster.
Shooting at a crisp 53.6 percent from the field, Arizona outrebounded Ukraine 26-20 and recorded 23 assists on 38 made field goals, underscoring a more fluid offensive rhythm.
Despite those setbacks, the Wildcats’ recent showing suggests they are shaping into a competitive unit heading into the next phase of preseason work.