WACO, Texas — In the competitive landscape of college basketball, some players opt to hold back, focusing instead on managing their health amid a growing “load management” trend. However, Arizona guard Brayden Burries faced a unique challenge not common among many prospects—he was battling bronchitis.
Despite feeling under the weather, Burries demonstrated extraordinary resilience by taking the court during crucial matchups against BYU and Houston, averaging 30.5 minutes per game. His offensive performance fell short of his potential, yet his determination helped the Wildcats secure victories. “I was about to sit out, but the coaches said they would help me through it,” Burries recalled. “To just play through it was basically what happened.”
Burries credited his teammates for stepping up in his struggle, leading Arizona to wins over BYU and Houston, much to the approval of Coach Tommy Lloyd. “For him just to be out there says a lot,” Lloyd remarked after the victory against Houston on February 21.
In the Wildcats’ recent matchup against No. 2 Baylor, Burries shone despite admitting he is still not fully recovered. He scored 24 points, with 14 of those coming in the second half, helping Arizona overcome a 10-point deficit to edge out Baylor 87-80. “Today was the best he’s looked,” Lloyd said, expressing his gratitude for Burries’ impressive performance at such a critical time.
While the Wildcats previously relied heavily on players like Ivan Kharchenkov and Anthony Dell’Orso, who both experienced reduced effectiveness against Baylor, Burries’ resurgence proved pivotal. In the first half, Arizona struggled against Baylor’s shooting and rebounding, but Burries’ energetic play—including a memorable one-handed dunk—ignited the team during the second half.
Previously, Burries found his performance limited by his illness; he battled shortness of breath and fatigue, acknowledging that “it was hard breathing when I was out there.” He even shared a glimpse of his struggle with an Instagram post showing an IV, underlining the challenges he faced.
Supporting him throughout this ordeal was a robust support system that included family and the athletic department’s medical team. UA athletic trainer Justin Kokoskie coordinated treatments that allowed Burries to fight through his illness. Burries expressed gratitude, stating, “It’s hard, especially nowadays, when you get sick… But he fought for it. Give him credit. Give his parents credit.”
Burries’ commitment reflects not only personal determination but also the culture of camaraderie at Arizona. With aspirations of clinching a share of the Big 12 title against Kansas this Saturday, Burries emphasized the strength of the team’s bond. “We have a great team — so many players are hurt or sick, and we all just come together,” he noted. “Our culture and our connection with each other is so strong that we want to play for one another.”
As Burries exemplifies incredible grit and tenacity in the face of adversity, Arizona’s ability to unite despite challenges brings an inspiring narrative to the forefront as they aim for a hopeful finish to their season.