Arizona Wildcats Gear Up for Big 12 Season Opener Against Utah

The Arizona women’s basketball team is set to begin its Big 12 conference play on December 18, 2025, facing the Utah Utes at noon at McKale Center. Coach Becky Burke emphasizes that the Wildcats will approach this game no differently than their previous nonconference matches. Despite finishing the nonconference season with a strong record of 9-2, Burke insists that all previous results are irrelevant as the team enters what she describes as the “real season.”

Burke conveyed this sentiment to her players following a decisive 105-59 victory over the Bellarmine Knights, their final nonconference opponent. “It’s a new season,” Burke stated. “I don’t care if we went 0-11 or 11-0 in nonconference. All that stuff gets scrapped. You are 0-0 starting on Monday.” The coach’s focus on readiness reflects her commitment to maintaining a high standard as the competition intensifies.

Entering Big 12 Competition

Arizona’s performance in the nonconference phase has been a mixed bag. Burke noted that while the Wildcats secured a positive record, the preseason served primarily to establish chemistry among the players, all of whom are new to the roster. “The greatest value of the preseason was getting 11 games worth of minutes together,” Burke explained.

The Wildcats’ nonconference schedule has been criticized for its lack of challenge, with their strength of schedule ranking between 303rd and 333rd according to various sources. The team faced opponents like Chicago State and Bellarmine, which were also low in the NCAA NET rankings. Burke highlighted the importance of maintaining focus during these games, a trait she hopes will carry over into conference play.

As the Wildcats prepare for Utah, which boasts a record of 9-3, they will need to address some glaring weaknesses. Entering league competition, Arizona ranked last in the Big 12 for rebounding margin and near the bottom in blocked shots per game. Burke’s insistence on defensive improvement has been echoed by players, including forward Blessing Adebanjo, who emphasized the need for relentless effort to compete effectively in the Big 12.

Challenges Ahead

The Wildcats will face tougher competition in the Big 12, a fact not lost on Burke or her players. “We’re the underdog,” said Adebanjo. “It’s gonna be tough.” The team’s fast-paced style, which sees them averaging around 76.7 possessions per 40 minutes, could present both advantages and challenges against larger opponents. Point guard Noelani Cornfield has been a standout, ranking high nationally in assists and contributing significantly to the team’s offensive strategy.

One concern for Arizona is the status of forward Montaya Dew, the sole returning player from last season. Dew is currently sidelined due to a knee injury, and Burke indicated that her recovery remains uncertain. “It’s just been an up-and-down process,” Burke noted. A decision regarding Dew’s potential return or pursuit of a medical redshirt is expected within a few weeks.

As the Wildcats step into the Big 12, the stakes are higher than ever. Each game will be critical for building momentum and establishing their place in a competitive conference. With Burke at the helm, the team’s focus will remain on improvement and execution rather than immediate results.

“Success isn’t always quantifiable,” Burke said, reflecting on her coaching philosophy. “It’s about how hard we compete and how well we execute.” As Arizona prepares for their first conference game against Utah, the team’s resilience and adaptability will be tested in what promises to be an exciting season ahead.