"Strong debuts by a loaded freshmen class headlined the action, led by Koa Peat's 30-point performance in the No. 13 Arizona Wildcats' 93-87 upset of the defending champion No. 3 Florida Gators."
"There is nothing for the Gators to sulk about after losing to No. 13 Arizona, a legit Big 12 contender that showed the college basketball world on Monday that it has a star in Peat with Big 12 player of the year aspirations. Thomas Haugh proved he has the versatility to play in the small forward spot he was moved to with an incredible 27 points, but the Florida frontcourt struggled to stop Peat from attacking the rim."
"In the Gators' backcourt, Xaivian Lee and Boogie Fland had poetic moments in which they demonstrated the benefits of employing two point guards. Under the nine-minute mark, Lee -- All-Ivy League at Princeton the last two seasons -- hit Fland with a no-look pass as the former Arkansas star finished in the lane and drew a foul. That said, there were stretches in which they gave into their instincts, and the offense didn't consistently flow with two natural distributors who arguably forced too many shots."
Opening night showcased impactful freshmen performances, most notably Koa Peat's 30 points powering No. 13 Arizona to a 93-87 upset of defending champion No. 3 Florida. Arizona showed star potential in Peat with Big 12 player of the year-level upside. Florida's Thomas Haugh scored 27 after shifting to small forward, but the Florida frontcourt struggled to contain Peat and surrendered 50 points in the paint. Florida's new backcourt pair produced highlight plays yet also forced shots and needs time to build chemistry. Auburn escaped Bethune-Cookman 95-90 in overtime in Steven Pearl's first game as head coach.
Read at ESPN.com
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