Caleb Love Conducts Masterclass: Wildcats Dominate in 93-64 Season Opener Rout

TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) – Caleb Love showed remarkable skill and teamwork, recording 17 points and six assists as No. 10 Arizona edged Canisius 93-64 for a season-opening victory. . The game marked the start of coach Tommy Lloyd’s fourth season, and the Wildcats wasted no time in showing off what they were capable of.

Arizona went on an incredible 20-2 run early in the game, including the first 13 points, building a 55-30 lead at halftime. The Wildcats remained in strong control throughout the game, never allowing the Golden Griffins to shrink their lead by more than 18 points, extending their winning streak in the season opener to 18.

The Wildcats dominated in the paint, outscoring Canisius 48-12 and finishing the game with an 18-rebound advantage. KJ Lewis also contributed greatly to Arizona’s success, scoring 14 points. The team had impressive ball movement with 20 total assists, but had nine turnovers, five of which occurred before the starters were sent off.

Meanwhile, Canisius struggled to find his rhythm, taking a full four minutes to score his first and constantly facing Arizona’s overwhelming size. Still, the Golden Griffins shot 43 percent from the field, an impressive feat in one of the toughest arenas in college basketball.

Paul McMillan IV led the Canisius effort, scoring 20 points to add to the game.

Caleb Love returned to Arizona amid rumors of pursuing an NBA career and made an immediate impact, scoring seven points in Arizona’s explosive start. The Wildcats’ size was a key factor in their game plan, and having two 7-footers in the lineup was a huge asset. This advantage translated into 17 offensive rebounds resulting in 19 second-chance points for Arizona.

Moving forward, Canisius will face St. Bonaventure on Saturday and Arizona will play Old Dominion on the same day.

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