Arizona Adjusts to Big 12 Tournament Environment

Wildcats coach Tommy Lloyd discusses the challenges of playing in Kansas City

Mar. 13, 2026 at 12:07am

Arizona head coach Tommy Lloyd discussed the overall environment at the Big 12 Tournament, including the unique glass court and the lack of Wildcats fans compared to when the team played in the Pac-12 Tournament in Las Vegas. Lloyd emphasized that the team is focused on competing and winning, rather than worrying about the external factors.

Why it matters

Arizona's move to the Big 12 Conference has presented new challenges for the team, including playing in a different tournament environment and facing tougher competition throughout the conference. How the Wildcats adapt to these changes could impact their performance and success in the postseason.

The details

Lloyd noted that while the glass court was an adjustment, the team is prepared to play in any conditions. He also acknowledged the lack of Arizona fans compared to when the team played in the Pac-12 Tournament in Las Vegas, where the Wildcats had a strong home-court advantage. However, Lloyd said the team is focused on competing and winning, rather than worrying about the external factors.

  • The Big 12 Tournament is currently taking place in Kansas City.

The players

Tommy Lloyd

The head coach of the Arizona Wildcats men's basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“Well, I didn't play. I coached, so I was on fine footing. You can ask these guys. I mean, they would be able to give you a better answer about that. Listen, we'll play on asphalt. We'll play on asphalt with double rims. I mean, we're fine with that. If the other team has to deal with it, then we'll deal with it as well. I'll let the powers that be make those higher up decisions.”

— Tommy Lloyd, Head Coach

“I mean, listen, you guys are asking a lot of questions here. I want to talk about the ballgame. 100 percent. Would I want this in Vegas? Yeah. 100 percent I will. But you know what? I didn't ask to be in the Big 12. We got put in the Big 12. I didn't have any input on it, but I love being in the Big 12.”

— Tommy Lloyd, Head Coach

“Well, you've got to understand the Pac-12 tournament was in Las Vegas, so it was McKale North, so we were Iowa State, we were Kansas. It obviously feels really different for us now. It's what we signed up for, so there's no complaints.”

— Tommy Lloyd, Head Coach

What’s next

The Big 12 Tournament will continue in Kansas City, with Arizona looking to adapt to the new environment and compete for a championship.

The takeaway

Arizona's move to the Big 12 Conference has presented new challenges for the team, including playing in a different tournament environment and facing tougher competition throughout the conference. However, coach Tommy Lloyd is focused on his team's ability to adapt and compete, rather than dwelling on the external factors.