Tommy Lloyd thanks Wildcats fans as Arizona starts season
Arizona men’s basketball coach Tommy Lloyd thanked Wildcats fans, said one game won’t define the season and talked about the fundamentals he wants from the team after a loss to UCLA.
Arizona men’s basketball coach Tommy Lloyd is looking ahead to the 2026-27 season with excitement and appreciation for Wildcats fans as he focuses on preparing his team.
The No. 5 Wildcats lost its season opener to No. 22 UCLA 84-75 on Monday, Nov. 2, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas as part of the TNT Sports Hall of Fame Series.
During a news conference Friday, Oct. 30, Lloyd expressed his appreciation for fans’ continued support and talked about his hopes for the season.
“The foundation of our program has been built by our fan support,” Lloyd said, noting the important role Wildcats season-ticket holders play and describing them as major stakeholders in the program.
He thanked fans for their patience and loyalty as the team prepares for another season.
“We’re excited,” Lloyd said.
While expectations remain high, Lloyd acknowledged the uncertainty that comes with a new season.
“These seasons can be crazy rides,” Lloyd said. “I’m sure it’ll be an entertaining ride.”
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He also recognized that fans may place significant importance on the Nov. 2 game against UCLA, but said one result would not determine his outlook on the entire season.
“We’re going to give it our best,” Lloyd said. “And hopefully we can be great representatives for our fan base and our university and our community.”
On the court, Lloyd said protecting the basketball and competing on the boards would be two important factors in the Wildcats’ success this season.
“You’ve got to be able to take care of the ball. You’ve got to be able to compete on the glass,” Lloyd said, explaining that the fundamentals required to compete against UCLA could also benefit Arizona throughout the remainder of the season.
He said he believes that if Arizona can execute against strong opponents, the same habits could translate into success against others.
The early part of the schedule gives the Wildcats an opportunity to show they can take care of the basketball, rebound effectively and compete against challenging opponents. Reflecting on Arizona’s preseason performance and the transition into regular-season competition, Lloyd shared a measured assessment of where his team stands.
“I think the biggest takeaway is we got a chance to be OK and now we’ve got to go do it,” Lloyd said.
Although the Wildcats have spent the preseason preparing for competition, Lloyd said the team must translate its preparation into performance on the court.
He also said he hasn’t placed too much pressure on himself or his players heading into the season. Instead, his focus remains on preparation and seeing how the team responds to regular-season competition.
“I’m just looking forward to getting to the real games and getting it moving,” Lloyd said.
Kyleigh Pandhi is a University of Arizona alum and freelance journalist based in Tucson. Contact her at kyleighpandhi@gmail.com.
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