Arizona Wildcats’ head coach Tommy Lloyd expressed a resilient outlook following his team’s first loss of the season, a narrow 82-78 defeat against the Kansas Jayhawks at Allen Fieldhouse. Despite the setback, Lloyd emphasized the importance of responding positively to adversity, praising Kansas for their performance and their ability to mount a crucial second-half run.
Lloyd maintained a calm demeanor throughout, downplaying any unfavorable officiating decisions, including the Jayhawks’ significant advantage at the free-throw line where they shot 11 more than Arizona. “I honestly don’t care how the game is officiated,” Lloyd remarked. “We should be fine. We’re a physical team and we’re built for it.”
Reflecting on the absence of Kansas player Darryn Peterson, who was sidelined due to illness, Lloyd stressed that this should not overshadow Kansas’ execution. “Let’s not make this about Darryn Peterson,” he stated. “Kansas is a hell of a team, and they did a hell of a job tonight.”
Discussing his team’s performance, Lloyd specifically addressed the challenges Arizona faced in finishing plays at the rim, which had been a strong suit for them previously. He credited Kansas’ defensive efforts, particularly highlighting star player Flory Bidunga’s impact on both ends of the floor.
Playing in the intense atmosphere of Allen Fieldhouse, Lloyd acknowledged the difficulty of competing in such environments late in the season. He noted that the passionate fan base plays a role in shaping the game’s dynamics. “It was awesome,” he remarked regarding the experience, adding that these tough away games are integral to growth.
Despite the disappointment of the loss, Lloyd’s focus remained on the upcoming challenges and the learning opportunities that come with them. “I can’t wait to get on that plane, get back home, and I feel like our season just started,” he concluded, offering hope and determination for his team as they look to bounce back in their next matchup. This experience against a powerhouse like Kansas serves as a stepping stone in their ongoing journey through the season.