Arizona played Washington significantly tougher than most thought. And a big reason why was the defense.

On the offense, Noah Fifita started our slow but caught fire in the second half. What does this mean going forward?

And can the Cats steal a game against USC in LA?

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Arizona Wildcats’ draft hopeful Caleb Holt draws Derrick White, Marcus Smart, and Jalen Suggs comparisons—can his elite defense and high motor outshine shooting inconsistencies to secure a top NBA Draft spot?

Host Leif Thulin and NBA draft analyst James Barlow break down Holt’s Lithuania tour, dissecting his rebounding prowess, defensive versatility, and fit alongside Ivan Kharchenkov and Mo Krivas. Is Holt’s high-floor game enough to make him a lottery pick, or does his streaky shooting cap his ceiling? The conversation spotlights Arizona’s trio of NBA prospects, projected stat lines, and how team dynamics could shape All-American odds and Final Four aspirations. James Barlow also predicts Holt’s impact at the college level and weighs in on draft scenarios for Kharchenkov and Krivas.

Can Arizona’s star trio turn their collegiate synergy into NBA First-Round success? Don’t miss this sharp, insider analysis ahead of a pivotal Wildcats season.

Mark J. Rebilas IMAGN IMAGES

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

SupplyHouse
Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order.
SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service.

Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.

Square
Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod

LARINECO
Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE.

5-Hour ENERGY
Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Arizona Wildcats escape USF, but glaring rebounding issues raise questions about their Big 12 title hopes. Can RJ Godfrey’s eligibility return restore Arizona’s trademark dominance on the glass and inside scoring? Mo Krivas and Ivan Kharchenkov shine as potential All-Americans, yet the absence of depth and physicality was evident throughout the matchup.

Leif Thulin breaks down Arizona’s strengths—highlighting the dynamic defense driven by Caleb Holt and Kharchenkov, Holt’s growth as a top NBA prospect, and a surprise guard-heavy lineup that could shape the season’s early outlook. Key topics include concerns over Cam Holmes’ role, the implications of Godfrey’s absence, upcoming showdowns against UCLA and other national powerhouses, and how Tommy Lloyd’s squad stacks up against elite competition. With size and rebounding under the spotlight, can the Wildcats reclaim their identity and build a Final Four-caliber team?

00:00 Arizona Win & RJ Godfrey Need

07:55 Arizona Strengths & Lineup Analysis

17:14 Caleb Holt’s Impact & Season Outlook

John Hefti IMAGN IMAGES

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Butcher Box
If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always.

5-Hour ENERGY
Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https://5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.

ULTRA POUCHES
Don’t sleep on Ultra Pouches. New customers get 15% Off with code LOCKEDONCOLLEGEFOOTBALL at https://takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…
🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOAZWildcats?sid=YouTube

Locked On College Conferences, HBCU, Basketball & More
🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnCollege

#Arizona #ArizonaWildcats #ArizonaFootball #ArizonaBasketball

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are BYU, Oklahoma State, and Utah hiding cracks beneath their winning records? As Big 12 contenders escape with shaky victories, questions swirl about foundational weaknesses and whether these programs are true playoff threats or potential frauds. The Big 12 Squad unpacks narrow escapes, fourth-down blunders, and the surprising rise of teams like Houston—blowing past opponents while others barely hang on.

Sharp insight highlights defensive lapses, quarterback performances from Drew Mestemaker and Noah Fifita, and hot takes on the College Football Playoff Committee's eye test versus scoreboard watching. Key debates center on West Virginia’s historic defensive struggles, Utah’s lack of pass rush, and whether the Big 12 can land multiple teams in the playoff. With conference showdowns looming, can any top contender claim elite status, or are upsets just around the corner?

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Butcher Box
If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always.

5-Hour ENERGY
Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https://5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.

ULTRA POUCHES
Don’t sleep on Ultra Pouches. New customers get 15% Off with code LOCKEDONCOLLEGEFOOTBALL at https://takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Arizona Wildcats basketball faces pivotal questions as the Red-Blue Weekend reveals key strengths and pressing concerns for Tommy Lloyd’s squad. Can Caleb Holt overcome his early shooting struggles and emerge as the Big 12’s breakout star? Ivan Kharchenkov’s scoring surge and Mo Krivas’ dominance in the paint provide hope, while RJ Godfrey’s presence could make or break Arizona’s rebounding prowess and interior defense.

The analysis spotlights Arizona’s evolving guard play with Derek Dixon and JJ Mandaquit, a deep but unproven bench, and whether defensive energy will translate into offensive efficiency. Is this core strong enough to contend for a national title, or will inconsistent shooting and roster holes prove costly? The Wildcats’ path to the Sweet 16—or beyond—may depend on rapid development from young standouts and a few timely answers to tough questions.

00:00 Red-Blue Weekend Takeaways
Immediate analysis of Arizona basketball's Red-Blue Weekend; focus on strengths, weaknesses, and key player performances.

08:54 Arizona's Strengths & Positives
Breakdown of standout players, team strengths, guard play, and defensive potential for the season.

19:06 Team Concerns & Depth Questions
Discussion of key concerns including player efficiency, depth, shot creation, and projections for the season.

Arizona Wildcats, Arizona basketball, Red Blue Game, Mo Krivas, Ivan Kharchenkov, Caleb Holt, RJ Godfrey, Derek Dixon, JJ Mandicat, Cam Holmes, Ugnis Jaroshevicius, Maksim Brnovich, Tommy Lloyd, Wildcats highlights, Arizona Wildcats news, Arizona Wildcats roster, Big 12 basketball, college basketball, NCAA basketball, Wildcats recap

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…
🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOAZWildcats?sid=YouTube

Locked On College Conferences, HBCU, Basketball & More
🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnCollege

#Arizona #ArizonaWildcats #ArizonaFootball #arizonabasketball

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Butcher Box
If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always.

Aura Cybersecurity
Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware.
Protect yourself now.

Square
Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod

5-Hour ENERGY
Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Big 12 basketball’s power struggle heats up as Arizona Wildcats and Houston Cougars emerge as conference frontrunners. Can Arizona’s star-studded frontcourt featuring Ivan Kharchenkov and Mo Krivas outmuscle Houston’s veteran squad anchored by JoJo Tuggler and DJ Thomas? With Ken Pomeroy’s rankings placing five Big 12 teams in the national top twelve, the pressure mounts on returning stars and fresh transfer talent alike to prove their worth.

Leif Thulin and Parker Ainsworth break down why Texas Tech could be a dark horse if JT Toppin returns, question Kansas’ depth, and spotlight the potential pitfalls for Iowa State without key players. The episode analyzes secret scrimmages, non-conference scheduling tactics, and the high-stakes battle for number one seeding between the Big 12 and SEC. Don’t miss sharp insights on Big 12 contenders, standout coaching strategies, and which rising teams could shake up college basketball’s hierarchy this season.

00:00 KenPom Big 12 Rankings
Discussion of KenPom analytics, Big 12 teams in the top 12, returning production, and preseason opinions on conference strength.

10:54 Secret Scrimmages & Preseason
Insights into preseason "secret" scrimmages, reactions to practice matchups, and breakdowns of non-conference scheduling for Houston and Arizona.

21:50 Big 12 Contenders & Predictions
In-depth segment on primary Big 12 challengers, detailed discussion of Texas Tech, Kansas, and other conference teams' depth, eligibility, and final top 5 team projections.

Big 12 basketball, KenPom rankings, Houston Cougars, Arizona Wildcats, Texas Tech Red Raiders, Iowa State Cyclones, Kansas Jayhawks, BYU basketball, TCU Horned Frogs, SEC basketball, College basketball preview, Braden Burries, Jaden Bradley, Caleb Holt, Ivan Kharchenkov, Mo Krivos, DJ Thomas, Micah Robinson, Trey White, Council, Taimon Lipsy, Killian Touré, RJ Godfrey, Kendall Weaver, NCAA basketball news, college hoops analysis

ARYANNA FRANK IMAGN
Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…
🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOAZWildcats?sid=YouTube

Locked On College Conferences, HBCU, Basketball & More
🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnCollege

#Arizona #ArizonaWildcats #ArizonaFootball #arizonabasketball

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Butcher Box
If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always.

5-Hour ENERGY
Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https://5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.

ULTRA POUCHES
Don’t sleep on Ultra Pouches. New customers get 15% Off with code LOCKEDONCOLLEGEFOOTBALL at https://takeultra.com! #UltraPouches #ad

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Arizona Wildcats aim for a second straight Big 12 basketball title, but can they maintain dominance after major roster changes? Mo Krivas and Ivan Kharchenkov headline a retooled squad, while the eligibility of RJ Godfrey could vault Arizona to Final Four favorite status. Hosts Leif Thulin and Andy Patton debate Arizona’s new-look lineup, explore the crucial role of Caleb Holt, and identify potential weaknesses at point guard and in backcourt depth.

The race for Big 12 supremacy heats up as Houston Cougars and Texas Tech Red Raiders challenge Arizona’s throne. Analysis centers on Houston's rugged consistency under Kelvin Sampson, Texas Tech’s talent influx, and the high floor of Iowa State with TJ Otzelberger at the helm. Which dark horses could crash the top ranks? Key matchups, player projections, and coaching insights shape the outlook for one of college basketball’s most unpredictable conferences.

00:00 Arizona Favored in Big 12
Opening segment discussing why Arizona is predicted to win the Big 12, roster changes, and key returning players.

09:47 Top Big 12 Challengers
In-depth conversation about which teams could threaten Arizona's top spot, highlighting Houston and Texas Tech, and breaking down conference contenders.

24:05 Rankings & Dark Horses
Detailed ranking of Big 12 teams beyond the top three, including debate about Kansas, BYU, TCU, and Iowa State, plus discussion of team ceilings, floors, and surprise picks.

ARYANNA FRANK IMAGN IMAGES

Arizona Wildcats, Big 12 Basketball, Ivan Kharchenkov, Mo Krivos, RJ Godfrey, Caleb Holt, Texas Tech Basketball, Houston Basketball, Kansas Basketball, Iowa State Basketball, BYU Basketball, Tamen Lipsy, Braden Burries, Jayden Bradley, Grant McCasland, college basketball predictions, 2024-25 season, Big 12 standings, Jackson Kohler, Rob Wright, Jorian Bateman, Killian Touré, Xavier Edmonds, TCU Basketball

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…
🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOAZWildcats?sid=YouTube

Locked On College Conferences, HBCU, Basketball & More
🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnCollege

#Arizona #ArizonaWildcats #ArizonaFootball #ArizonaBasketball

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.