Arizona forward Koa Peat has been outstanding for the Wildcats, leading them to a 4-0 start to the 2025-26 season. He has scored in double figures in three of four games, highlighted by a 30-point performance in the 93-87 season-opening win over defending champion Florida.
Beyond his offensive explosiveness, Peat’s standout quality early in his collegiate career is his unwavering confidence. He speaks up with game-changing ideas and tributes to the coaching staff, always expressing exactly what he believes.
Koa Peat Delivers Special Father’s Day Tribute to Coach Tommy Lloyd and the Rest of the Team USA Staff
Peat was interviewed by NBC Sports’ college basketball announcer, John Fanta, about his experiences during the offseason with the USA Basketball Team and the Arizona Wildcats. Fanta asked the 6’8″ freshman about the special heartfelt tribute he delivered to his coach Tommy Lloyd and the rest of the Arizona staff while training with Team USA during Father’s Day.
In his brief speech, the forward spoke on behalf of the Team USA players present at the training camp and thanked Lloyd and assistant coaches Grant McCasland and Micah Shrewsberry for being present with them, despite what was supposedly a time to bond with their own families.
“I said on behalf of the players, we just want to thank all the coaches that are fathers for coming out here,” Peat said. “They could be with their families, but they’re out here coaching us on Father’s Day, their day. So, I mean, we just thank them for that.”
MORE: Arizona Guard Opens Up on How Playing With Koa Peat Really Compares to Caleb Love
Peat said the tribute was a testament to his character, being raised as a leader during his younger days.
“I’m just trying to show my presence as a leader (and) trying to be vocal,” he added. “I think that’s what brings teams together and that’s what’ll help me be the best teammate for my teammates and best player for my coaches.”
Expectations are high for Peat, as he is part of the current crop of young stars who could make a jump to the professional ranks as soon as next year. But for now, the freshman is focused on helping the Wildcats win as many games as possible and lead them to their first national title since 1997.
In four games, the forward is averaging 16.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.3 steals in 26.5 minutes per game. He has made 55.0% of his shots and 75.0% of his free throws, but more importantly, Peat has helped Arizona establish its status as one of the teams to watch out for this season.
