The University of Arizona women’s basketball team (4-0) prepares for their matchup against the University of Northern Colorado (5-1) on Tuesday, Nov. 25, at 6 p.m. in McKale Center in a nonconference matchup. The Wildcats look to continue their streak to 6-0.

Northern Colorado players to watch

The Bears are a highly efficient team, converting 44.2% of their 2-point shots and pairing this offensive prowess with a strong defensive effort. They consistently hold opponents to under 55 points per game, making them a formidable opponent in any matchup. 

Leading the way is sophomore guard Neenah George, who averages 12.8 points per game and serves as the team’s primary ball handler and perimeter threat. George is particularly adept in late-game situations, using her quick first step to get by defenders and excelling both as a creator and catch-and-shoot player.

Anchoring the frontcourt is Tatum West, a reliable option who averages 11.5 points and 8.3 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 63.4% from the field. West’s skill set complements George’s, as they often pair well in ball-screen actions, with West taking advantage of opportunities to roll to the rim, secure rebounds and score second-chance points. Standing at 6-foot-2, West is at her best when she gets touches with her back to the basket, where she can utilize her drop-step or hook shot and consistently draw fouls to get to the free throw line.

Wildcats to watch

The Arizona Wildcats’ offensive strategy is centered around Mickayla Purdue, a senior guard who transferred from Cleveland State University. Purdue has made an immediate impact, ranking 13th nationally by averaging 22.5 points per game. Her scoring versatility was on full display with a remarkable 31-point outing against University of California, Irvine. Whether in isolation, coming off of screens or finishing easy layups in transition, Purdue consistently finds ways to put points on the board and remains the focal point of the Wildcats’ attack.

Supporting Purdue is Noelani Cornfield, a transfer guard from the University of Buffalo, who serves as the team’s primary facilitator. Cornfield leads the Wildcats with an average of 8.5 assists per game, orchestrating the offense and ensuring her teammates are involved. While she may not be a high-volume scorer, Cornfield contributes significantly in clutch situations, ranking in the top 10 nationally with a free throw percentage of 91.7%. Her steady hand is also felt on defense, where she averages two steals per game, providing leadership and versatility on both ends of the floor.

Head coach Becky Burke has emphasized the need for defensive improvement following a recent game in which the Wildcats allowed 76 points to NAU, a team she expected to hold below 60. Burke underscored the importance of playing with pride and intensity on defense. 

“You can be dynamic on offense and also be dynamic on defense,” Burke said. “You got to have pride on that end of the floor. It’s got to matter to you just as much when nobody’s necessarily cheering for what you’re doing on the defensive end.”

With this mindset, the Wildcats aim to set the tone early against Northern Colorado by

forcing turnovers and capitalizing on their opponent’s vulnerability to giveaways. Generating turnovers will allow Arizona to push the pace, get out in transition and play their preferred fast-paced style of basketball.

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