What Arizona’s Lloyd, Peat and Kharchenkov said after rivalry win vs ASU

Arizona men’s basketball faced a tougher-than-expected challenge against Arizona State, but the Wildcats once again proved their resilience, grinding out an 89–82 rivalry victory to remain perfect at 17–0 on the season. While the margin was tighter than many analysts anticipated, head coach Tommy Lloyd and his players walked away encouraged by the lessons learned in a physical, emotionally charged contest.

Following the win, Lloyd, along with standout performers Koa Peat and Ivan Kharchenkov, offered thoughtful insight into what the game revealed about the team’s mentality, execution, and growth as the season progresses.

Lloyd emphasized that the performance reinforced his belief in his group’s competitive maturity. He explained that Arizona does not approach games with entitlement or an expectation that wins will come easily, especially in rivalry matchups. According to him, the Wildcats fully understood the difficulty of the challenge and embraced it. He appreciated the fight his team showed and stressed that even in adversity, his players demonstrated a willingness to make plays and find solutions. While he was relieved to come away with the victory, Lloyd acknowledged that the process and mindset mattered just as much as the outcome.

One area of satisfaction for the Arizona coach was the continued development of forward Tobe Awaka. Lloyd spoke at length about how much Awaka has improved since arriving in Tucson, praising his character, intelligence, and work ethic. He noted that Awaka’s progress is a prime example of what happens when a talented player commits to development over time. Lloyd pointed out that the Wildcats now have multiple dependable defensive contributors, which gives the team versatility and confidence on that end of the floor.

Arizona’s perimeter defense was also a topic of discussion, particularly in how ASU managed to generate quality looks from three-point range. Lloyd admitted that there were breakdowns in ball-screen coverage but credited ASU guard Moe Odum for making life difficult. Odum’s speed, creativity, and decision-making allowed him to exploit defensive reads, whether by shooting, splitting screens, or finding teammates. Lloyd explained that sometimes a defense executes correctly, but the opponent simply makes shots, and that was the case in several key moments. He expressed respect for ASU’s execution and competitiveness, tipping his cap to their performance.

When asked about Ivan Kharchenkov’s suitability for physical games, Lloyd was unequivocal in his praise. He stated that Kharchenkov is built for every type of matchup and described him as a winner with strong playmaking instincts. Although Kharchenkov has not always had the opportunity to showcase his full offensive skill set, Lloyd noted that his impact was undeniable down the stretch. He highlighted several crucial plays, including aggressive drives to the basket, drawing fouls, and calmly converting free throws in pressure moments.

Lloyd also reflected on Koa Peat’s performance, noting how the young star had to settle into the game emotionally. Given the significance of the rivalry, Peat may have come out overly aggressive early, trying too hard to make an impact. Lloyd described this as an example of undisciplined urgency, something the coaching staff frequently discusses. To Peat’s credit, he adjusted in the second half, regained composure, and delivered a strong all-around performance when it mattered most.

Regarding Peat’s recent stretch of play, Lloyd acknowledged that while the offensive numbers were impressive, defensive consistency remains a key part of his evaluation. Peat was asked to shoulder a heavy workload, logging significant minutes and pushing through fatigue and cramps late in the game. Lloyd explained that lineup decisions were influenced by foul trouble and game flow, and while Arizona nearly allowed a damaging four-point play, he believed the group was largely positioned to close the game effectively.

That near-mistake became a teaching moment. Lloyd described the situation as one where discipline was needed more than hustle. While Kharchenkov’s effort was commendable, Lloyd explained that understanding game context—shot clock, floor position, and risk versus reward—is crucial late in close games. The coaching staff viewed the sequence as a valuable learning opportunity that will help the team in future tight finishes.

Arizona’s offensive emphasis on attacking the paint was another focal point. Lloyd explained that ASU’s interior presence, particularly Massamba Diop, altered shots and made scoring inside difficult early. However, the Wildcats remained committed to attacking the rim, believing that sustained pressure would eventually wear the defense down. In the second half, that persistence paid off as Arizona found more success inside and forced the Sun Devils into tougher defensive situations.

Lloyd also addressed his perspective on winning and losing, making it clear that he does not define success by an undefeated record. While losing is never desirable, he views it as part of the broader process. His focus remains on the present task, not long-term accolades or tournament implications. Leading up to the game, his message to the team was simple: beat Arizona State. With that accomplished, attention immediately turns to the next challenge, a difficult road test at UCF.

The physicality ASU brought to the matchup did not surprise Lloyd. He credited Sun Devils head coach Bobby Hurley for his competitive fire and ability to motivate his teams, especially in rivalry games. Lloyd expressed admiration for Hurley’s intensity and coaching pedigree, noting that such effort and toughness are to be expected in these environments.

When discussing an on-court incident that resulted in offsetting technicals, Lloyd admitted he was unaware of the specifics and chose not to dwell on it. He emphasized the importance of staying composed in emotional games, pointing out that Arizona’s players have generally handled high-pressure situations with poise.

Jaden Bradley’s role as a closer was another highlight. Lloyd revealed that there was internal debate about whether to play Bradley early in the second half with foul trouble, but trust ultimately won out. Bradley rewarded that trust with a composed, team-first performance. Lloyd described him as a winner who values collective success over individual recognition.

Foul trouble for center Mo Krivas forced Arizona to adjust, and Lloyd explained that going smaller at times gave the Wildcats mobility and energy. He acknowledged that Krivas is learning how opponents increase physicality against him as his role grows. Lloyd stressed that maintaining composure and energy is critical for Krivas, who remains a vital piece of Arizona’s frontcourt.

Beyond the game itself, Lloyd addressed the decision to have ASU exit through a different tunnel, explaining that it was a gesture of respect toward Hurley. Lloyd shared that he wanted to ensure no unnecessary incidents occurred and emphasized the importance of sportsmanship and mutual respect in college basketball rivalries.

Lloyd briefly touched on potential transfer portal rule changes but made it clear that his priority remains coaching his team, not reacting emotionally to administrative decisions. He expressed confidence in the leadership overseeing college basketball and reiterated that the game itself should remain the focus.

Finally, Lloyd praised the McKale Center crowd, noting that the energy from students and fans played a tangible role in the win. He described the supporters not just as spectators, but as active participants who helped push the Wildcats across the finish line.

From the players’ perspective, Koa Peat described his first experience in the Arizona–ASU rivalry as thrilling. While acknowledging the history and intensity, he emphasized that the team approached the game with a businesslike mindset. Peat spoke glowingly about Awaka’s impact off the bench, crediting his energy and presence for swinging momentum at key moments.

Peat also reflected on the importance of winning a gritty game, explaining that experiences like this prepare the team for tougher challenges ahead. He admitted that his shots did not fall early but praised his teammates for keeping his confidence high. Trust, he said, allowed him to find his rhythm in the second half and contribute in multiple ways.

When asked about the team’s winning streak, Peat echoed Lloyd’s message of staying present. The Wildcats, he said, are focused solely on preparing for the next opponent rather than getting caught up in records or rankings.

Kharchenkov offered his own perspective on the rivalry, comparing it to derby games he experienced in Germany. He admitted that the emotional intensity pushed him to bring even more energy and effort, something he felt the team needed in a close contest.

He also highlighted the impact of the crowd, noting how the return of students gave the Wildcats an emotional boost. Playing in that environment, he said, inspires players to sacrifice and push beyond fatigue.

Kharchenkov discussed the importance of drawing fouls and applying pressure inside, explaining how it disrupts opposing rotations and creates easier scoring opportunities. He praised Bradley as a trusted leader who consistently delivers in high-pressure situations.

As Arizona continues its unbeaten run, both coaches and players emphasized growth, discipline, and staying grounded. The victory over ASU was not just another win—it was a reminder that championship-level teams must learn how to win imperfectly, especially when emotions run high and execution is tested.