3 things learned about Arizona basketball in exhibition games before UCLA

Point guards find early chemistry

Arizona added sophomore transfers Derek Dixon from North Carolina and JJ Mandaquit from Washington. In the exhibitions, they often shared the floor and showed sound decision-making, pace and spacing.

Their play eased concerns about how the pair would run Tommy Lloyd’s offense. The article says their ability to operate together could help Mo Krivas and Ivan Kharchenkov around the rim.

Holt shows two-way promise

Freshman Caleb Holt, a 6-foot-5 guard, made an impact on defense and in transition across the three games. He also showed progress in choosing when to attack and when to let the offense develop.

Lloyd said he wanted to help Holt without restricting his instincts, adding that some unexpected plays could be positive. Holt’s defense and willingness to learn could be important to Arizona’s ambitions this season.

Power forward remains unsettled

RJ Godfrey, a 6-foot-7 transfer from Clemson, missed all three exhibitions as his eligibility remained contested in court. The article describes him as a strong rebounder and efficient finisher whose style would fit alongside Krivas and Kharchenkov.

Without Godfrey, Kharchenkov may move to power forward, while Cameron Holmes, Bryce James or a two-point-guard lineup are possible options at small forward. Maxsim Brnovic showed defense and shooting range but remains raw and can get into foul trouble; Ugnius Jarusevicius and Evan Otten also showed flashes.

Godfrey’s lawsuit has a hearing scheduled for late January. His lawyers are seeking to have the current stay reversed by the Georgia Supreme Court, which would make him eligible until the hearing.

UCLA opener set for Las Vegas

Arizona begins its season against rival UCLA on Monday, Nov. 2, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. PT, and the game will be broadcast on HBO MAX.