Arizona Wildcats Reach Historic 21-0 Start

Comparing the 2013-14 and 2025-26 teams that both opened their seasons with 21-0 records

Jan. 31, 2026 at 6:47am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Arizona Wildcats have started the 2025-26 season with a historic 21-0 record, matching the 2013-14 team's school-record start. While both teams reached the No. 1 ranking in the AP Poll, they did so with vastly different styles of play - the 2013-14 squad under Sean Miller was built on a stifling defense, while the current team led by Tommy Lloyd features a high-scoring, up-tempo offense.

Why it matters

The comparison between these two dominant Arizona teams highlights the evolution of college basketball over the past decade, shifting from a 'Defense & Grit' era to a 'Skill & Pace' era. Both teams achieved historic starts, but the 2025-26 squad's offensive firepower and versatility could make them an even more formidable opponent.

The details

The 2013-14 Wildcats were led by a lockdown defense anchored by Aaron Gordon and Kaleb Tarczewski, ranking 3rd nationally in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. In contrast, the 2025-26 team thrives on a fast-paced, high-scoring offense averaging nearly 90 points per game, utilizing a skilled 7-foot-2 center in Motiejus Krivas and a versatile 5-star forward in Koa Peat. While the 2013-14 squad was more physically imposing, the current team has more pure offensive talent and perimeter shooting threats.

  • Arizona can break the school record of 21-0 with a win at Arizona State on Saturday at noon.
  • The 2013-14 team's stats began to dip after game 22 when Brandon Ashley broke his foot.

The players

Aaron Gordon

An elite 'glue guy' and world-class athlete who was the defensive engine for the 2013-14 team, often guarding the opponent's best player.

Koa Peat

A versatile 'point forward' who is a mismatch nightmare for the 2025-26 team, capable of initiating the offense and scoring in the post.

T.J. McConnell

The pure floor general who was the heartbeat of the 2013-14 team, a master of the no-look pass and baseline poke-away steal.

Jaden Bradley

The veteran point guard who provides the defensive intensity to balance out the heralded freshmen on the 2025-26 squad.

Nick Johnson

The Pac-12 Player of the Year in 2013-14 who provided the clutch scoring for a team that often struggled to produce points.

Brayden Burries

The freshman phenom who is currently the leading scorer for the 2025-26 team, a more nuanced, pro-style scorer with better range than Nick Johnson.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This comparison highlights the evolution of college basketball from a 'Defense & Grit' era to a 'Skill & Pace' era, with the 2025-26 Arizona Wildcats showcasing a high-powered offense that could make them an even more formidable opponent than the dominant 2013-14 squad.