The Wildcats jumped out to a 7-0 lead to start the game and never gave up the lead after that. The closest the game got after the first minute of the game was a 4 point lead for the Cats midway through the second half. The Cats finished the game with a 71-57 victory that will send them to the next round of play in Indianapolis.
The Big 3 players for Arizona combined for 52 points against Cleveland State. Nic Wise led the group with 21 points, 5 rebounds, 8 assists and a steal. Jordan Hill had 16 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, a steal and a block. Budinger had 15 points, 5 rebounds, and a steal. The surprising player of the game was definitely Jamelle Horne who played like he belonged in a big 4 for Arizona. His 15 points, 5 rebounds and 2 blocks were a huge contribution and helped to add one more threat to the Wildcats.
Arizona did a good job taking care of the ball against the steal-happy Vikings, giving up 11 turnovers and only 3 in the second half. What really saved the Cats was CSU's inability to hit any shots from deep. The VIkings finished 3-23 from 3 point range, compared to 6-15 against Wake Forest. Foul trouble almost got the Wildcats in trouble, but they did a good job in the second half of being careful.
Next up is the winner of Louisville and Siena. Whatever happens the Wildcats will be the Cinderella of the tournament in the Sweet Sixteen and they'll need to wear the glass slipper.