Could reinforcements be on the way for the Arizona Wildcats as they seek revenge on the Kansas Jayhawks in a Big 12 matchup that holds significant implications?
After suffering a lower leg injury in the Wildcats’ loss to the Texas Tech Red Raiders, freshman star and top prospect in the upcoming NBA Draft, Koa Peat, could return to the lineup for a huge rematch with the Jayhawks.
Is Koa Peat Set To Return for the Arizona Wildcats?
With the Wildcats set to host the Jayhawks in a massive game between two Big 12 contenders, all eyes are on Peat, whose return head coach Tommy Lloyd anxiously awaits.
After being upset by Darryn Peterson and the Jayhawks on the road back on Feb. 9, the Wildcats have revenge on their minds.
Following a close win over the Baylor Bears, Lloyd shared an encouraging update, saying he was hopeful reinforcements were on the way. Now, after missing the team’s past three games, Peat, the Wildcats’ star freshman, is on track to return at home against the Jayhawks.
“Arizona star freshman Koa Peat is set to return for the No. 2 Wildcats against No. 14 Kansas this weekend, as he’s expected to be probable. Peat has missed three games since suffering a muscle strain in his lower leg against Texas Tech on Feb. 24,” college analyst Pete Thamel reported.
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The update comes at an ideal time for the Wildcats, who have managed to stay afloat by winning all three of their games in Peat’s absence, but who’ve clearly missed his presence on both ends of the floor.
Peat averaging 13.8 points per game — third on the Wildcats — while shooting 54.2% from the floor and 33.3% from three-point range. Peat is also averaging 5.4 rebounds per game.
Those numbers only tell part of the story. Peat’s efficiency around the rim both offensively and defensively has made him a matchup problem all season. At 6’8″ with strength and a scoring touch, he gives Lloyd’s Wildcats versatility in the frontcourt, allowing them to play faster and more aggressively in transition.
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Although the Wildcats picked up impressive wins over contenders like BYU and Houston in Peat’s absence, the offense at times lacked its usual punch. With the Wildcats now rolling with momentum and Saturday’s showdown carrying added weight in the Big 12 Conference race, having Peat available could tilt the scales.
If Peat is able to play in this matchup with the Jayhawks and returns close to form, the Wildcats won’t just be adding nearly 14.0 points per night; they’ll be restoring a key piece of their identity at exactly the right moment with March Madness right around the corner.
