Arizona and Oregon Clash in NCAA Tournament Rematch

SEATTLE, Wash. — The No. 4 seed Arizona Wildcats are set to face off against the No. 5 seed Oregon Ducks in the second round of the NCAA Tournament on Sunday, March 22, at 6:40 p.m. PT at Climate Pledge Arena. Following impressive first-round victories, both teams are looking to advance to the Sweet 16.

Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd, along with players Caleb Love, Anthony Dell’Orso, Tobe Awaka, and Henri Veesaar, addressed the media on Saturday ahead of the highly-anticipated matchup. The Wildcats won their first-round game against the No. 13 seed Akron Zips by a commanding score of 93-65, while the Ducks defeated No. 12 seed Liberty 81-52.

“Oregon is a well-coached team with a great history,” said Love, reflecting on his previous encounters with the Ducks. “They have a well-rounded group and play their roles effectively. We need to be prepared for whatever they throw at us.”

Both teams share a storied rivalry from their time in the Pac-12, leading to an intense atmosphere on Sunday. Arizona is coming off a successful season in the Big 12, where they look to continue building momentum in the tournament.

Lloyd expressed respect for Oregon’s head coach Dana Altman and acknowledged the challenge presented by the Ducks. “We have a lot of respect for Oregon,” Lloyd said. “They know how to win in big moments, and this game will be no different.”

Arizona’s success in the tournament hinges on defensive consistency. Love emphasized that defense will play a critical role in their postseason success. “When we play well defensively, we’re tough to beat,” he noted.

The anticipated matchup will feature standout performances from both teams’ point guards. Oregon’s Jackson Shelstad, who scored 17 points against Liberty, and Arizona’s Jaden Bradley, who had 19 points in the victory over Akron, will look to set the tempo for their respective offenses.

Tobe Awaka underscored the importance of the fan support that travels with the Arizona team. “We appreciate our fans,” he said. “Their energy boosts us, whether we’re at home or on the road.”

The winner of Sunday’s contest will advance to face the No. 1 seed Duke in Newark, New Jersey. Arizona has reached the Sweet 16 in two of the last three tournaments, while Oregon seeks to return to that stage for the first time since 2021.

“It’s a new year,” said Lloyd. “There are new players and familiar faces, but this game is about executing our game plan and performing well under pressure.”