Arizona Daily Wildcat — Feb. 19, 2010, Sports

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sports

friday, february 19, 2010 NO EASY BUCKETS

DESERT REVIVAL

Hoops searching for season sweep of ASU in McKale

After a sour ending to last season, UA poised to try again

B6

B3 SIMON SAYS

Fresh faces: Baseball welcomes 23 new players to the roster — B2

Sophomore pitcher gears up to anchor young staff

Stacked schedule: Difficult, winding road to Oklahoma City for Wildcats — B3

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dailywildcat.com

Nicole Dimtsios — Sports Editor — 520•626•2956 — sports@wildcat.arizona.edu

Take two

Wildcats can regroup against Sun Devils after Oregon State disappointment That focus was lost against Oregon State and its deliberate zone defense.

It’s an issue that has Miller worried against a stingy ASU team.

It was a question of effort and focus.

“If there’s a silver lining in last weekArizona men’s basketball head coach Sean Miller felt like his team end,” he said, “did we learn and are we had regressed in its loss to Oregon able to improve?”

The Sun Devils fell to Arizona State Saturday, a truth so frustrating that he called it the lowest 77-58 in Tempe earlier in the year, point during his time in college snapping ASU’s five-game winning streak against the Wildcats. basketball.

With ASU coming off When the Wildcats a sweep of the Oregon (13-12, 7-6 Pacific 10 schools in two 10-point Conference) face the victories, Arizona ASU Sun Devils (18-8, Arizona vs. ASU won’t their previous 8-5) in McKale Center McKale Center vitory too high above this Sunday at 3:30 the Sun Devils’ heads. p.m., they will answer Sunday The Wildcats came out two questions: Will they 3:30 p.m. sluggishly during the first recover from their 63half, then exploded for 55 loss to the Beavers 52 points in the second, and will they be able to remain focused if the ball doesn’t roll but they don’t expect to catch the Sun Devils off-guard again. their way against ASU? “That can’t happen this game,” “Over 40 minutes, as a team, you’ve got to be able to deal with junior Jamelle Horne said. “We don’t those times in a game when you even want the game to be close.

“It was a great environment in miss shots,” Miller said.“You’re going to have those peaks and valleys of- Tempe,” he added. “Probably midway fensively against (ASU). While those through that second half, it was so valleys happen, can you continue to ASU, page B6 be tough-minded?”

By Kevin Zimmerman Arizona Daily Wildcat

If you go

Alan Walsh/Arizona Daily Wildcat

Senior point guard Nic Wise goes for the layup agaisnt ASU on Jan. 23 in Tempe. Sunday’s game is the final one in Wise’s career against the rival Sun Devils.

Arizona baseball dusts off the plate in 2010 playing,” Lopez said. “My job, I felt like for the past few weeks, (was) to just get them prepared to do that.”

“Wait till next year,” the old Brooklyn It will be a juggling act for Lopez Dodgers saying goes. during the first few series as he tries to These words surely ran through the solidify a rotation and a starting lineup. mind of Arizona baseball head coach Freshmen like Heyer, Alex Mejia and Andy Lopez last season, during what Seth Mejias-Brean will have the chance he described as the most disappointing to make an impression on Lopez early on, season in his coaching career. having earned the opportunity by improv“It was a nightmare,” Lopez said.“An ing under the guidance of veteran players. absolute nightmare.”

“We’ve got a lot of really good But when the first pitch crosses home freshmen that have come a long way,” plate this Friday night against Utah said junior Bryce Ortega. “We have Valley at Sancet Stadium, it means next some older guys that have shown year is finally here, and with it a clean them what to do and they’ve come slate for the Wildcats. along really nicely.”

“I think everyone is just getting real Even though the freshmen are befired up,” said freshman ing asked to do a lot, it pitcher Kurt Heyer. “It that they are not Arizona is just one helps was three months ago we alone. They will be able were talking about it, and to pick each other up win away from now it’s finally here.” when they make misbecoming the Character issues got in takes and experience seventh program to the transition into colArizona’s way last season, with players often missing win 2,500 collegiate lege baseball as a group. class and even practices.

“You kind of build that baseball games.

With off-field issues bond together and you translating to poor play know everyone gets neron the field, Lopez quickvous,” Mejias-Brean said. ly rid Arizona of the disease before it “But I like that we have a lot of younger spread and is now ready to compete guys that I can grow up with for the with a roster full of dedicated players. four years that I’m here.”

“I don’t think we’ve had one day The pitching rotation is set for the first (this year) where anybody hasn’t been series against the Wolverines. Heyer will on the field,” Lopez said. “It’s been a handle the Friday night assignment, whole one-eighty. It’s been fun for me with sophomore Kyle Simon following because like I said, last year was a dif- on Saturday and redshirt junior Daniel ferent experience.”

Workman rounding out the staff on Twenty-three newcomers will don Sunday afternoon. the cardinal and navy this year, and the However, plenty of questions still large crop of freshmen is expected to remain entering this weekend’s series shoulder the load and point the pro- with Utah Valley. gram back in the right direction.

Can Simon step up and take on Mindful of his young squad, Lopez the role of ace of the staff? Will the created a schedule that begins with 26 freshmen experience jitters in their first straight home games, hoping to ease college games? Can the team come the freshmen into college baseball. together despite the new faces?

He made it clear, however, that his These are questions that will remain freshmen needed to be ready to play unanswered until the season progressthis weekend and has been trying to es, but one thing is certain — Arizona instill a veteran mentality into the is not making excuses. younger players from day one.

“We do realize that we are young, “(The freshmen) are going to have but that’s not an excuse for us to play to play. No ifs, ands or buts; They’re young,”Workman said.

Miller entertains Arizona fans

For one last time, Sean Miller apologized for his team’s poor effort against Oregon State.

Then it was an all-genuine appreciation and reward to students at Thursday’s pep rally hosted by Miller and his staff.

“ASU versus UA is as big as it gets,”Miller told students in McKale Center.

Miller warmed up the crowd of approximately 300 students by refreshing his self-imposed chants from the beginning of this season.

Next the UA coaching staff picked students to run through one of the Wildcats’baseline out-of-bounds plays, giving away free pizza to his participants.

Students, most of whom didn’t wear the proper attire, then ran through a coast-tocoast layup drill.

Finally, Miller challenged volunteers to replicate his trick plays with the ball, awarding successful students boxes of pizza.

“I know how much every gets excited for this next game,”Miller told the crowd.“Your support, it goes deeper than you realize.”

While one student asked about the UA’s self-imposed men’s basketball sanctions, Miller looked into a more positive light regarding the future health of his program.

“There will be a day when you come to McKale Center and you ask yourself,‘How many will they win by today?’”Miller said.

— Bryan Roy

Taming the Tigers

By Michael Fitzsimmons Arizona Daily Wildcat

Gordon Bates/Arizona Daily Wildcat

Junior center fielder Lauren Schutzler takes a hack at a pitch during a Feb. 6 practice at Hillenbrand Stadium. The Wildcats will open the home season on Saturday against No. 5 Missouri.

Wildcats open home season against top-5 team

By Nicole Dimtsios Arizona Daily Wildcat They may have already completed their first games in collegiate softball, but the six freshmen on the Arizona softball roster have never had the experience of playing in front of the Hillenbrand Stadium crowd.

One thing’s for sure: The season home opener against the No. 5 Missouri Tigers will be a weekend they’ll never forget.

“It’s gonna be a surreal feeling coming out here in front of a big crowd and an intense game,” said freshman pitcher Kenzie Fowler.

This will be the first chance for

the Arizona crowd to officially see the promising freshman in action, something that the young Wildcats are hoping to deliver on in Saturday’s double header and Sunday’s game.

Although the butterflies may have subsided a little after finally getting on the field and starting the season, a series against another top-notch program will stir them up again.

“I’m very excited,” said freshman Baillie Kirker. “I’ve heard that there’s a lot of crazy fans here, and I’m very excited to be part of the experience instead of watching from the stands.”

Despite already pitching for Arizona this season, Fowler still feels nervous

going into her first home game.

“I don’t know if (the butterflies) will go away for a while,” Fowler said.“You know, just playing softball. The game hasn’t changed, it’s just a different level, a different atmosphere.”

After starting off the season with a sixgame win streak at the Kajikawa Classic in Tempe, the Wildcats return home for an early season test against Mizzou.

The freshmen, however, won’t have any time to get used to playing at Hillenbrand Stadium before a formidable opponent comes into town. The meeting with another top-5 team is an MIZZOU, page B3

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• friday, february 19, 2010 • arizona daily wildcat

Batter up

The UA baseball team opens its season with a revamped roster and an eye on the World Series

“I can speak for the entire pitching staff and the whole team: We’re aiming for Omaha.”

— junior pitcher Daniel Workman

Shifts on the Stepping into the spotlight diamond

By Mike Schmitz ARIZONA DAILY WILDCAT

By Mike Schmitz ARIZONA DAILY WILDCAT At one point, Arizona head coach Andy Lopez said junior infielder Bryce Ortega was the best defensive shortstop he’d ever coached. But it is looking more and more like Ortega will spend most of his time at second base this season.

Freshman Alex Mejia is expected to earn the spot at shortstop, although Lopez indicated that the positions and lineups will take some time to solidify.

“We’re thinking about it,” Lopez said of moving Ortega to second.“It may be Mejia at short, it may be Ortega at short. … I’m going to be honest with you guys, you may see a different lineup for three weeks, honest to goodness.”

Ortega has been taking some reps at second base, a position that he had actually never played.

“You know it’s not too much different from shortstop,” Ortega said.“There’s a few little things I had to work on, but I feel really comfortable over there so wherever coach wants to play me, I feel comfortable.”

Ortega, who hit .324 in 54 starts last season, will undoubtedly be“taking one for the team”with a move to second. Mejia is regarded as an impressive defensive shortstop, and a shift to a new position would be more difficult for a freshman than for a junior team leader. If Mejia does end up at shortstop, Ortega expects him to do well.

“He’s really knowledgable about the game,” Ortega said of Mejia.“He’s been able to pick up on all the things we like to do at Arizona, so wherever they put him, if they put him at short, he’ll do fine.”

Bandy back at home

Sophomore Jett Bandy, who earned Collegiate Baseball All-American honors last season, will also be shifting spots on the diamond, as he will move back to his natural position of catcher after playing most of last year at third base.

“I’ve always been a catcher,”Bandy said.“I played third base a lot in high school and I played third base last year, but it’s just good to be back home behind the plate.”

Bandy, who hit .299 with 21 doubles, four home runs and 39 RBIs in 47 games last season, will not be the consensus, everyday catcher, however. Lopez admitted the catching position is competitive Bryce Ortega right

Favorite MLB team: Seattle Mariners Favorite MLB player: Ken Griffey Jr. Favorite movie: “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective” Guilty-pleasure song: “Party in the USA”

by Miley Cyrus

Alan Walsh/Arizona Daily Wildcat

Of the Arizona baseball players, 23 will wear Arizona across their chests for the first time this season, making it difficult to pinpoint one player who needs to step up for the Wildcats in 2010.

But if there is anyone who can come into his own and take this team to the promised land, it’s sophomore pitcher Kyle Simon. The 6-foot-5, 210-pounder pitched some huge games for the Wildcats as a true freshman last season, resulting in a 3-5 record and 6.03 earned run average in 74.2 innings pitched.

With last year’s ace Preston Guilmet now in the Cleveland Indians’ farm system, Simon will be given the opportunity to anchor an extremely young but talented Arizona pitching staff.

“Last year I ended the year being the Saturday guy and I just kind of went to summer ball trying to perfect a few pitches and I did that,” Simon said.“So now I’ve taken over the role as the ace of the staff.”

“We’d like for (Simon) to jump in that spot on Friday night and set the tempo,” added head coach Andy Lopez.

Simon was forced into a starting role last season, and started 11 times, the second-most on the staff. As expected for a true freshman thrown into some highpressure situations, Simon struggled with inconsistency, but made up for it with impressive outings against top-notch competition.

With a lethal two-seam fastball, Simon has all of the makings of a No. 1 guy, and he’s been motivated to make the best of the opportunity.

“I’ve worked my ass off for it,” Simon said of becoming the team’s Friday-night starter.

“I’m real excited to go out there and turn the program from what people have perceived it last year to an actual sold team this year.”

Simon said that he spent the summer and fall working on some pitches, most notably a breaking curve ball, and the coaching staff is confident that the 19-year-old is poised to shoulder the load. “(Simon) pitched last year for us in very tough situations against some strong opponents,” said assistant coach Shaun Cole, who handles most of the pitching staff duties.

“The good thing that (Simon) brings

to the table is he has a very even-keeled demeanor,” Cole said.“You can never tell if he gave up a home run, or if he just had a 1-2-3 inning, and I think that’s huge for a Friday-night guy.”

Redshirt junior Daniel Workman — who went 3-1 with a 3.86 earned run average last season in 15 appearances — is expected to be the No. 2 starter, but he’s not far behind Simon.

If Simon falters in the No. 1 role, don’t be surprised if Workman takes over. He added a sharp slider to his repertoire in the offseason, and should be one of the Wildcats’ most reliable arms all season long.

The Wildcats return only six pitchers to the program from their disastrous last season, but the young arms that Lopez and his staff have brought in are expected to provide depth that Arizona didn’t have last season.

“I think we’ve got a deeper pitching staff this year,”Workman said.“Last year we had more talented guys and this year we’ve got a deeper staff that can go out there and throw.”

Lopez expects freshman hurler Kurt Heyer, a freshman out of Huntington Beach, Calif., to step into the No. 3 spot on the staff, and his fellow players have been equally impressed.

“Kurt Heyer is most definitely most dominating out of all of them, I would say,” said freshman shortstop Alex Mejia.“He’s definitely improved a lot in the weight room and on the field.”

“He’s a workaholic,” Simon added.

Due to minor ailments afflicting both Simon and Workman, Heyer will actually start tonight’s game. Although his No. 1 status is only expected to last the weekend, he will certainly push Simon and Workman all season long.

While Heyer has been the most impressive, all of the freshmen have done their part in the offseason, providing the coaching staff with a feeling of confidence that doesn’t usually come with such a young and inexperienced staff.

“They’ve done a great job,”

now with Bandy and Pima Community College product and redshirt junior Jake Meskin.“Me and Jake, we work real hard, we know our pitching staff,” Bandy said.“It doesn’t really matter who’s back there, me or Jake, we’re going to help the team out tremendously.”

Kyle Simon Favorite MLB team: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Favorite MLB player: Tim Lincecum Favorite movie: “Dazed and Confused” Guilty-pleasure song: Anything Michael Jackson

Alan Walsh/Arizona Daily Wildcat

Favorite MLB team: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Favorite MLB player: George Brett/Ozzie Smith Favorite movie: “Training Day” Guilty-pleasure song: Any old school rap

Impact freshmen & top returners Kurt Heyer RHP

Seth Mejias-Brean INF/OF

Alex Mejia

The pitcher out of Huntington Beach, Calif., is expected to be the Saturday night starter for the Wildcats.

He throws hard and works hard, and those two things should equal success for Heyer.

The standout quarterback at Cienega High School chose baseball and Arizona.

Whether it is at his natural position of shortstop or the more likely spot at third base, the 6-foot-2, 200-pound infielder should contribute this season.

The defensiveminded shortstop may be so good in the field that junior Bryce Ortega — the team’s top defensive player — could make the move to second base.

Nathan Cunningham

Rafael Valenzuela

The walk-on junior will undoubtedly take a leadership role this season and may very well be doing so from second base. Ortega shined at shortstop last Bryce Ortega season, but with freshman shortstop Alex INF Mejia, Ortega’s services may be better at second base.

Last season: .324, 57 runs, 3 hr, 33 rbi

Cole Frenzel 1B/3B

OF

Kyle Simon RHP

Jett Bandy

The sophomore earned collegiate baseball All-American honors last season at third base, but will move back to his natural position of catcher this season.

C

Key returners

Steve Selsky The power-hitting lefty should see time at first or third base early in the season. Where he ends up remains to be seen, but the 6-foot, 221-pound North Dakota product should bring some pop to the lineup.

The pitcher out of Indianapolis, Ind., is most noted for his sharp-breaking ball and has the makeup to close out games for the Wildcats.

RHP

INF

Tim Glass/Arizona Daily Wildcat

experience to set the tone for the Wildcats, the rest of the team should follow suit.

“If the Friday-night guy can go out there and get outs,” Lopez said,“our pitching staff gets a chance to watch and say, ‘OK that’s how he’s getting those guys out, and those are the weaknesses we can attack on Saturday and Sunday.’”

Gordon Bates/Arizona Daily Wildcat

Alex Mejia

Favorite MLB team: Boston Red Sox Favorite MLB player: Manny Ramirez Favorite movie: “Shooter” Guilty-pleasure song: “Girls Just Want to Have Fun”

by Cyndi Lauper

Cole said of the freshmen pitchers.“My goal is to have not just a Friday-night guy, but I want a Friday-night guy on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and I think this year we have a chance of doing that even though we’re very young.”

While the freshmen pitchers are certainly still in question, the success of the team as a whole relies heavily on the success of Simon. If he can use his size and last year’s

Coming off of a Collegiate Baseball AllAmerican season last year, Selsky is expected to hit third and roam right field for the Wildcats.

Last season: .318, 36 runs, 7 hr, 21 rbi The 6-foot-5 sophomore will take the role of the number one guy this season.

He has the stuff of the Friday night guy, but whether or not he flourishes in that role has yet to be seen.

Last season: 3-5, 6.03 ERA, 19 appearances, 11 starts, 74.2 innings pitched

Last season: .299, 21 doubles, 4 hr, 39 RBI

Rafael Valenzuela INF/OF

The Nogales native is one of only two seniors on the team and will definitely be in the lineup on a daily basis. Whether it’s at third, first or in the outfield, Valenzuela will be a true leader for the Wildcats this season.

Last season: .277, 11 doubles, 14 RBI The redshirt junior is one of the few upperclassmen on the pitching staff. He will start the season as the No. 2 pitcher, but may Daniel Workman challenge for the No.1 spot as the season RHP progresses.

Last season: 3-1, 3.86 ERA, 15 appearances, six starts, 42 innings pitched

Visit dailywildcat.com to meet the rest of this year’s baseball team.

Loaded schedule awaits softball

By Nicole Dimtsios Arizona Daily Wildcat

Extra bases

• Last year, Arizona played 31 percent of its games against teams that were ranked in the top 25 nationally at the beginning of the 2009 season.

• In this year’s remaining schedule, the Wildcats will play 20 games against teams that are currently ranked in the top 25 nationally (35.7 percent). If you count teams that received votes in the rankings, that number jumps to 41 percent.

• Missouri, Michigan, Washington and Arizona State — along with Arizona — all made it to the Women’s College World Series in 2009. The Wildcats will have to face all four of those teams this year.

Redemption

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Bouncing back from an unsettling 2009 finish

By Kevin Zimmerman Arizona Daily Wildcat Head coach Mike Candrea’s 2009 Arizona softball team ended the year under the spotlight of history.

It set — blew away, really — the NCAA record for the number of home runs in one season.

But in their final game, the Wildcats gave up a record 14 runs to the Alabama Crimson Tide at the Women’s College World Series. They didn’t score a single run themselves.

“I’ve never lost 14-0 in my life,” said outfielder Brittany Lastrapes.“I can handle losing, that’s part of the game, but to be embarrassed like that is just something I never want to feel again.

“Coach (Candrea) reminds us, we remind each other; we never want to feel that again.”

Arizona now has a chip on its shoulder.

And it also has a large portion of the recordsetting offense returning. Arizona lost key seniors third baseman Jenae Leles to graduation and utility player Sam Banister to exhausted eligibility but returns the entire outfield as well as seasoned senior K’Lee Arredondo at shortstop.

Refocused and ready for another World Series appearance, the Wildcats have a highly touted freshman class, which includes pitcher Kenzie Fowler, a veteran core and a rekindled teamoriented dugout.

Whether they finish first, second or 10th, the Wildcats don’t want to have regrets.

“Obviously, I’ve thought about (last year),” Candrea said,

referring to the two embarrassing losses that ended Arizona’s 2009 season.

“I (had to) look down and see how much ass I have left after those two games and I’ve decided to come back and get after it.

“That’s what the game’s all about is you learn and hopefully you take that feeling,” he added.“You can’t just show up and expect things to happen. It’s been a little bit of a motivation.”

her two-time national Gatorade Player of the Year awards, making her one of the most highlyregarded softball recruits in history.

“She deserves every piece of (credit). Whatever she gets, she deserves,” said freshman first baseman Baillie Kirker of Fowler.“Having that coming into our program is great. It gives us a lot of attention, and she deserves that attention.”

Fowler brings a large contrast to last year’s onedimensional, offense-reliant team. Senior Sarah Akamine struggled through injuries last year, and the inconsistent bullpen behind her was only more detrimental.

Now, the senior is pleased to take a backseat to Fowler as she recovers from offseason back surgery.

“This will probably be my most exciting year just to watch and actually take in everything,” Akamine said.“I’ve been waiting for this. You know what, (Fowler) is a great pitcher. I think we’ll be a good combo together.

We both have different styles. We both have different go-to pitches.”

And the humble Fowler, who has been clocked throwing fastballs at speeds higher than former UA great Jennie Finch, is happy to have the support.

“I think Sarah (Akamine) and I compliment each other really well,” she said.

“It’s always nice when you have more than one pitcher that can get the job done.”

kids respond in a positive way, those teams are there for one reason, (and) that’s trying to win that ultimate goal,” Candrea said.“I just felt that we were a little bit selfish.”

During the fall, Candrea’s concerns were heard loud and clear throughout the dugout.

He stressed the importance of team camaraderie during that time and even held a team session with a sports psychologist. So far, the results have been positive.

Candrea said the players had some

Depth of field

Arizona won’t use its newfound pitching as an excuse to lose low-scoring games.

The Wildcats want to score.

Despite losing two of their top-four home run hitters, the speed and depth of the bench has improved over last season due to a strong recruiting class.

“Our one-through-nine could be very scary,” Arredondo said.“Our entire bench could pinch-hit for everyone.

“Maybe one person hits curve balls better than screwballs,” she said.“It’s nice we have that person that we can throw in (and say) ‘This person’s throwing screw balls, we’ll throw you in,’ and knowing that they can probably get a hit for us.”

Candrea pulled in Peoria Sunrise Mountain High School’s Brigette Del Ponte, who could serve time at second or third base, and Matte Haack, a shortstop converted to third baseman out of Katy, Texas. He also recruited first baseman Baillie Kirker out of California’s Crescenta Valley High School to take over for departed senior Sam Banister.

The versatility and talent of his 2009 recruiting class will give Candrea options if injuries hit.

“We simply have more pieces to the puzzle this year than we did last,” Candrea said.“But still it comes down to performing when you need to.”

Mike Christy/Arizona Daily Wildcat

The Arizona softball team is diving head first into the 2010 season.

Accomplished sports programs often begin their seasons by playing inferior teams to build up a winning record and solidify their spots atop the national scene early in the season.

Not so for Arizona softball.

Arizona began the season at the No. 4 position, and, after a 6-0 start at the Kajikawa Classic, have risen to the No. 2 spot.

The historically-sound Wildcats jump into a nationally-ranked schedule in their first weekend of play at Hillenbrand Stadium when the No. 5 Missouri Tigers roll into Tucson for an early season top-5 showdown.

In the Cathedral City Classic, which takes place next weekend, Arizona will go up against five teams, four of which have earned some national talk.

“For me, I’ve never dodged the opportunity to play good people,” said head coach Mike Candrea. ”I think you learn more from good opponents than playing weak opponents, so I think it’s a good thing for us.”

The rest of the season won’t get any easier for the Wildcats.

“It’s a test to see where we really are,” said shortstop K’lee Arredondo. “To play three games against a really good squad is going to test our ability for Pac-10s.”

The Pacific 10 Conference is, simply put, stacked. Six of the eight teams that compete in the Pac-10 are nationally ranked, with defending national champion Washington sitting at No. 1.

The travel situation for Arizona also changes this year. The Wildcats will now play a weekend series against each of the Pac-10 teams, either all three at Hillenbrand Stadium or all three on the road. In years past, the season series between teams have been split between the two schools’ venues with either two games at home and one on the road or one game at home and two away.

“It’s different than in past years, but I think it’s a good thing.” Candrea said. “It will be a little different playing the same opponent three times in a row.”

arizona daily wildcat • friday, february 19, 2010 •

Chemistry concerns

Subtle comments have alluded to regrets about last year’s flawed ending.

“We’ve gotten closer as a team,”Akamine said.

“We’ve had team barbeques, we’ve all gone to the movies together. We’ve done a whole bunch of stuff together that we didn’t do last year.”

Then there were the comments from the Hall of Fame head coach.

“One of the big things that I found with the last couple years (is) I don’t feel like we’re that good of a team,” Candrea said.“We performed at times very well, but when it came down, I don’t think there was a lot of trust with one another.

“If you look at the finals in the World Series, you’re going to see things that happen and how

Fowler the phenom

For those who like rounding numbers, UA freshman pitcher Kenzie Fowler had a .00 ERA during her senior season in high school. It was actually a .048 ERA that warranted

of the better fall classroom performances that he’s seen in past years. Also, the team’s veterans have experiened a change in attitude.

“We all get along very, very well this year,” Arredondo said. “That’s just so great to come out to the field knowing that there’s nothing going off the field that’s going to affect how we play on the field. It’s just nice to know this early in the year that we are getting along and that everyone is doing their part.”

Gordon Bates/Arizona Daily Wildcat

Lauren Schutzler

Favorite movie: “Titanic” Favorite food: Crab legs Favorite celebrity: Derek Jeter Bad habit: Putting syrup on everything

Ernie Somoza/Arizona Daily Wildcat

Brittany Lastrapes

K’Lee Arredondo Favorite food: Spaghetti Favorite song: “The Truth” by Jason Aldean Favorite movie: “The Blind Side” Guilty pleasure: Ice cream

Favorite song: “Party in the USA”

by Miley Cyrus Favorite movie: “This Is It” Favorite TV show: “Grey’s Anatomy” Bad habit: Everything must be in order

MIZZOU

Karissa Buchanan

continued from page B1

Ernie Somoza/Arizona Daily Wildcat

Victoria Kemp Kristen Arriola

Ernie Somoza/Arizona Daily Wildcat

Kenzie Fowler Favorite song: Anything by Britney Spears Favorite movie: “Avatar” Guilty pleasure: Hollywood gossip and tabloids Bad habit: Buying too many headbands

Stacie Chambers

Gordon Bates/Arizona Daily Wildcat

Matte Haack Brigette Del Ponte

Wildcats tested early at Hillenbrand

Baillie Kirker

opportunity to rack up big wins early in the season.

“It gives us an idea of where (we) are real quickly,” head coach Mike Candrea said of taking on Missouri. “(Missouri is) a very formidable opponent,”Candrea said.“They’re talented, so it will be a very good test for us.“ Both the Wildcats (6-0) and the Tigers (2-1) were in Oklahoma City, Okla., for the Women’s College World Series last year, but the two teams never met. They were both knocked out after losing two games — Arizona to Florida and Alabama, and Mizzou to Arizona State and Georgia.

In the 10 times the Wildcats have faced Mizzou, Arizona has come out on top the last nine times, with the most recent win coming in 2007, when they swept the Tigers at Hillenbrand.

Arizona’s freshmen are stepping into starting roles right away. Kirker, Matte Haack and freshamn Brigette Del Ponte will likely see time on the corners for the Wildcats. Regardless of if they’re ready, the Arizona newcomers will have to step up big this weekend.

“There’s not a lot of places in the country where the fan support and the atmosphere is like it is here,” Candrea said. “For our young kids, it will be a good eye-opener for them and another step they need to take.

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• friday, february 19, 2010 • arizona daily wildcat

Schedules Baseball ‘Home is where the heart is’ With 23 newcomers when it moves Pacific 10 sporting the cardinal Conference play to the and navy for the Arizona road in Berkeley against baseball team this season, it’s No. 3 California State, Fullerton California. The 26-game fortunate that the Wildcats home stretch is the lonon March 5, 6 and 7 will play their first 26 games gest since 1967 when the No. 8 ASU at the friendly confines of Wildcats hosted 39 home Jerry Kindall Field. on April 20 and May 15, 16 and 17 games before leaving Tucson.

“Obviously this was the year that I thought we were going to be very “That’s definitely a huge advantage for us,” young, which we are, and it would be good to said redshirt junior pitcher Daniel Workman. be at home for as long as we could and kind “It’s going to be important with the newer of get comfortable with college baseball,” said guys this year – playing in a home atmosphere from the get-go.” head coach Andy Lopez.

The team won’t hit the road until April 1 — Mike Schmitz

Noteworthy games

FEB

Feb. 19 Feb. 20 Feb. 21 Feb. 26 Feb. 27 Feb. 28

Utah Valley Utah Valley Utah Valley Long Beach State Long Beach State Long Beach State

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

Noon 6 p.m.

6 p.m.

Noon

Mar. 2 Mar. 3 Mar. 5 Mar. 6 Mar. 7 Mar. 9 Mar. 10 Mar. 12 Mar. 13 Mar. 14 Mar. 16 Mar. 17 Mar. 19 Mar. 20 Mar. 21 Mar. 23 Mar. 24 Mar. 26 Mar. 27 Mar. 28

UNLV UNLV Cal State Fullerton Cal State Fullerton Cal State Fullerton St. Joseph’s St. Joseph’s Northern Colorado Northern Colorado Northern Colorado Wichita State Wichita State Sacramento State Sacramento State Sacramento State New Mexico New Mexico Oregon* Oregon* Oregon*

5 p.m.

1 p.m.

6 p.m.

TBA Noon 5 p.m.

1 p.m.

4 p.m.

1 p.m.

Noon 6 p.m.

6 p.m.

4 p.m.

1 p.m.

Noon 6 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

Noon

April 1 April 2 April 3

at California* at California* at California*

2:30 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

Noon

MARCH

APRIL

*Pac-10 games

Softball

FEB

Feb. 20

Missouri Missouri Missouri BYU Fresno State Cal Poly Hawaii Baylor

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Cathedral City, Calif.

Cathedral City, Calif.

Cathedral City, Calif.

Cathedral City, Calif.

Cathedral City, Calif.

Noon 2 p.m.

Noon 4 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

11 a.m.

2 p.m.

10 a.m.

New Mexico State New Mexico State Northern Iowa St. John’s Idaho State St. John’s Northern Colorado Illinois-Chicago St. John’s Creighton Minnesota Louisville Michigan Oklahoma New Mexico Virginia @ New Mexico @ New Mexico @ New Mexico

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Fullerton, Calif.

Fullerton, Calif.

Fullerton, Calif.

Fullerton, Calif.

Fullerton, Calif.

Albuquerque, N.M. Albuquerque, N.M. Albuquerque, N.M.

4 p.m.

6 p.m.

4 p.m.

Noon 2 p.m.

6 p.m.

5 p.m.

7 p.m.

3 p.m.

5 p.m.

1 p.m.

9 a.m.

11:15 a.m.

9 a.m.

6 p.m.

9 a.m.

5 p.m.

Noon Noon

April 9 April 10 April 11 April 16 April 17 April 18 April 23 April 24 April 25 April 30

@ ASU @ ASU @ASU UTEP UTEP @ Washington @ Washington @ Washington Stanford Stanford Stanford Oregon State Oregon State Oregon State @ California

Tempe, Ariz.

Tempe, Ariz.

Tempe, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Seattle, Wash.

Seattle, Wash.

Seattle, Wash.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Berkeley, Calif.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

Noon 4 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

4 p.m.

Noon 7 p.m.

7 p.m.

Noon 7 p.m.

7 p.m.

Noon 3 p.m.

May 1 May 2 May 7 May 8 May 9 May 13 May 14 May 15

@ California @ California @ Oregon @ Oregon @ Oregon UCLA UCLA UCLA

Berkeley, Calif.

Berkeley, Calif.

Eugene, Ore. Eugene, Ore. Eugene, Ore. Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

Tucson, Ariz.

1 p.m.

Noon 6 p.m.

4 p.m.

Noon 7 p.m.

7 p.m.

1 p.m.

Feb. 21 Feb. 26 Feb. 27 Feb. 28

MARCH March 3

March 4 March 7 March 8 March 12 March 13 March 14 March 18 March 19 March 20 March 21 March 26 March 27 March 28

APRIL April 1 April 2 April 3 April 7

MAY

Gymcats Chance for W-hoops to split vs. ASU square off with Alabama

By Dan Kohler ARIZONA DAILY WILDCAT

By Kevin Nadakal ARIZONA DAILY WILDCAT The Arizona gymnastics team travels to Alabama this week to face the No. 1-ranked Alabama Crimson Tide. This will be the toughest test of the season for the Gymcats as they try to get back on track after two consecutive losses.

“We looked good before (in practice) and have had hiccups in meets,” said head coach Bill Ryden . “We have been training hard; we never let it get them down. We are going there very confident.”

The Gymcats expect there to be around 10,000 fans in the stands. The Southeastern Conference is known for having passionate fans and large turnouts at their meets.

“I have never competed against any team that has had that many fans before,”said sophomore Deanna Graham.

“I don’t know if it’s going to make too much of a difference, I guess it will be exciting if you look up into the stands.

When we are on the floor, you don’t really notice who is around you, and when you are competing, you really don’t hear anything.”

The Gymcats have averaged just more than 1,000 fans in McKale Center so it will be an adjustment the team will have to make quickly.

“I think it pumps us up,” Ryden said.

“They are not afraid of the opposition or afraid of the fans. I just think it will be exciting for us.”

Ryden has talked to his team this week about what they should expect from such a large crowd. He also said that his upperclassmen have done an excellent job in talking to the underclassmen and giving them any advice.

The Gymcats have focused hard in practice all week and are ready to prove that on Saturday.

“I think we are looking at that as more of a challenge and just for us to get out there and show them that we are really good at gymnastics,” Graham said.

Assistant coach Colleen Johnson GYMCATS, page B5

The Duel in the Desert will be renewed this weekend when the Arizona women’s basketball team makes its annual trek to Tempe to take on its archrival, the Arizona State Sun Devils, in part two of the women’s hoops State Farm Territorial Cup Rivalry Series on Saturday.

With four wins in its last five games, Arizona (13-11, 6-7 Pacific 10 Conference) can have some solid confidence and momentum in trying to defeat a strong Arizona State (15-9, 7-6) team — a team that they haven’t beaten since January of 2005.

Fortunately for the Wildcats, the Sun Devils aren’t living up to their usual

standards this year, as their sixth-place standing in the Pac-10 is one of the lowest conference standings for ASU. The Sun Devils are currently coming off split results during their contests with the Oregon schools over the past weekend. With this in mind, Arizona can feel confident having won their previous two games.

In January, when the Sun Devils came to Tucson, both teams managed to keep it close until the top of the second half. With the game tied at 44, Arizona State took Arizona for a ride with an 11-0 run initiated by leading scorers Becca Tobin and Danielle Orsillo.

The Wildcats, although they mounted an impressive comeback, were never able to recover.

Arizona continues to work on its rebounding, which has been the theme of practice the entire season. Rebounding can either be the team’s closest ally or its worst nightmare. When it’s able to rebound, it wins, if not, the outcome is completely up in the air. “(Simply) By putting one foot in front of the other and by crashing the boards, we’ll get results,” Butts said.

“Hopefully that continues.”

In their previous game against California State, Northridge, the Wildcats almost doubled the Matadors in rebounds. This success brings hope and confidence to the Arizona players and coaches alike.

The Sun Devils are a quick team, and the Wildcats must adjust and continue

to focus on getting back to protect the basket, as well as continuing to drive the quick transition offense for the entire game.

With a steady and focused mindset, the Wildcats hope to be able to finally stifle a Sun Devil team that has been plaguing them for quite some time.

Arizona forward Ify Ibekwe had a game high 25 points and 16 rebounds against Arizona State in the last meeting, and she, along with help from her team, needs to put shooting pressure on the Sun Devil defense.

“We have to mentally ready to play and focused,” Ibekwe said. “What we have to do is be disciplined offensively and defensively, and everything else takes care of itself.”

Tests for tennis in weekend home stand

By Nathan Comerford ARIZONA DAILY WILDCAT A pack of Brigham Young University Cougars is coming with an undefeated 8-0 record and the No. 60 ranking by the Intercollegiate Tennis Association to LaNelle Robson Tennis Center to take on the Arizona men’s tennis team. “(BYU is) a lot better than their ranking is right now,” said men’s head coach Tad Berkowitz. “They’ve already beaten several ranked teams. But we’re motivated to play these guys, and it will be a good opportunity to play these guys on our home courts.”

Four of the Cougars’ eight wins have come against ranked opponents, and the Wildcats will have their hands full with what should prove to be an exciting match.

The men’s tennis team (4-1), who is ranked No. 23 in the nation by the ITA, plays BYU today at noon, and it

will host South Alabama (2-2) Sunday at 9:30 a.m.

After two close 4-3 wins against No. 73 New Mexico State and California Polytechnic State University, San Louis Obispo last weekend, Berkowitz said, “We didn’t dodge one, but two bullets this weekend.”

However, he said that those close calls were good for the team.

“I’m happy with how we were tested so strongly,” he said. “That’s great to have to have certain guys step up to come up clutch for the team, and it’ll only make us stronger down the road.”

While BYU is the clear highlight of the weekend for the men, the University of South Alabama cannot be overlooked even though on paper they seem like an easy matchup. Last weekend, the Mustangs of Cal Poly, who currently hold an 0-4 record, gave UA one of its closer matches of the season, so anything is possible.

Berkowitz insists that his team is up to the challenge though, and, after showing grit last weekend, why wouldn’t they be?

Women home after Texas road trip

While the women (6-1) currently hold their first ranking by the ITA all season at No. 56, head coach Vicky Maes still holds to the fact that it is simply a“bonus”right now and that the team is taking it one match at a time.

That approach should help with two ranked teams coming into Tucson this weekend.

On Saturday, the women are set to face No. 47 San Diego State (4-3) at noon while No. 57 ranked St. Mary’s (5-1) is around the corner at LaNelle Robson Tennis Center for a match at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday.

The Wildcats had an extra day of practice this week, which they feel will give them an added edge this weekend, especially with doubles, for which

Maes feels a “mental advantage” is earned from added double practices.

“Both teams will battle us hard, so we cannot have too many letups,” Maes said. “Though St. Mary’s may have had the better results so far this year, San Diego State beat us last year, so we know we’re going to have a challenging two days ahead of us.”

Last season, San Diego State beat UA 4-3.

But it is a new year and the Wildcats’ method of taking it one match at a time has slowly been paying off. Maes is staying wary of their upcoming schedule and not taking anything for granted.

“Certainly, our efforts have paid off well so far, but we know matches will get tougher and tougher as the weeks go by,” she said. “We are a team that’s competing hard and looking to take advantage of the opportunities we have, one at a time.”

UA hits final meet before Mt. Pac championships

Of the few athletes who are heading north this weekend, senior hurdler Chris Titsworth will be looking to proAs the 2010 indoor track and field visionally qualify for nationals in his season comes to a close, Arizona is last eligible indoor season. constantly fighting to improve — the “I don’t really care about my place,” women’s team is No. 16 in the nation, Titsworth said. “I just want a time that while the men’s squad sits at No. 18. will take me to nationals.”

“Rankings are all good and He’s not content with this performance everything, but it doesn’t matter this season and is out for more in if you don’t bring it at a meet,” • Liz Patterson is ranked No. 1 in women’s high jumper in nation. the next couple of weeks. head coach Fred Harvey said.

“I’ve had a (personal record) • Brigetta Barrett is ranked No. 4 in women’s high jump and is one This weekend, a small group of only four freshmen ranked nationally. … but until I get on the podium, of Wildcats are headed to • Courtney Hayes is ranked No. 15 in women’s high jump.

I’m not done,” he said.

Walkup Skydome for the NAU For junior LaTisha Holden, this • Luis Rivera-Morales is ranked No. 3 in men’s long jump.

Tune Up meet. This is the last weekend is all about business.

By Galo Mejia ARIZONA DAILY WILDCAT

meet before the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation championships and the second-to-last chance these athletes will have to qualify for the NCAA National Championships.

“This meet is to keep them on queue going into the conference championship,” Harvey said.“For the hurdlers, it’s a chance to get a better national qualification.”

She’s not looking to challenge any other racers but herself.

“I don’t really pay attention to names, unless it’s my own,” Holden said.“It’s one of the last chances I have to make my national time what I want it to be and improve my rank. I just want to secure my spot.”

Even though this week’s meet won’t be as big as the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation championships, there is still some pressure on Holden.

“When we get to a championship meet, it’s the best of the best,” she said.

“I won’t get that feeling at Flagstaff, but I need to run it as fast as I can.”

arizona daily wildcat • friday, february 19, 2010 •

B5

Staff Picks Kevin Zimmerman

Nicole Dimtsios

Assistant sports editor

Softball National runner-up

Arizona didn’t lose much from last season and now has a chip on its shoulder after bowing out in the 2009 Women’s College World Series in embarrassing fashion. The Wildcats now have the pitching, but Kenzie Fowler is still a freshman — as pitchers go, Florida’s Stacey Nelson and Washington’s Danielle Lawrie have the advantage of experience.

The team’s lead-off hitter last year hit a teamhigh .480 batting average while tallying 104 hits on the 2009 season — the second highest player on the team had only 72. Plus, the speedy junior will come through in the clutch.

If the Wildcats can squeeze solid innings out of the often-injured Akamine, that much more pressure will be off ace Kenzie Fowler to carry the team on her shoulders. That will be the key: Giving Fowler the season to develop in time for the World Series.

GYMCATS continued from page B4

Fourth place in the Pacific 10

Fourth place in the Pacific 10

The Wildcats were selected to finish fifth in the Preseason Coaches Poll, but with the new blood in the program after last season’s nightmare of a season, I expect Arizona to surprise some people.

It may take some time to hit stride, but a fourthplace finish in the Pac-10 is realistic for this group of youngsters.

Bryce Ortega

Kenzie Fowler

Fowler is the heir to the Arizona pitching throne. Despite being an addition to Wildcat softball, no one has more power than Fowler. The freshman pitcher has been recorded at speeds higher than Jennie Finch’s and has the ability to make even the best batters look ridiculous.

After turning in a first team All-Pac-10 season last year — .324, 53 runs in 54 starts at shortstop — Ortega will be looked to as a leader in the field and near the top of the batting order. With so many youngsters in the field, Ortega will play a huge role in the Wildcats’ success this season, and I’d expect the former walk-on to answer the bell and perform as the team’s best all-around player this season, whether it is at shortstop or second base.

Jett Bandy

Looking to build on Collegiate Baseball All-American honors, Bandy will be responsible for guiding a young pitching staff through the Pac-10 as he moves back to catcher. I think Bandy makes the biggest impact behind the plate and with his bat.

Baseball

X-factor

The backup catcher for the Wildcats could make a big impact in the batter’s box this season. After filling the role of designated hitter for Arizona in 2009, Koria will be able to both improve her numbers and supply the power in the middle of the lineup to drive in runs.

Once head coach Andy Lopez can iron out the early-season wrinkles that will surely come with a very young team, I think Arizona can compete in the Pac-10 and prove that last year was a fluke.

Baseball

MVP

Lini Koria

Sarah Akamine

Sports reporter

Baseball

Team finish

What the Wildcats were missing last year was consistency, either in the circle or at the plate, depending on the day. This season, head coach Mike Candrea and Arizona have the answers to fill both vacancies in ace Kenzie Fowler and last year’s number one offense.

Softball

Michael Fitzsimmons

Sports reporter

National Championship

Softball Brittany Lastrapes

Mike Schmitz

Sports editor

Kurt Heyer

The freshman hurler is expected to be the team’s number three starter on Sundays. While returning pitchers Kyle Simon and Daniel Workman have already proven what they can do at the collegiate level, Heyer is still a question mark. If he is really as impressive as the coaching staff and players say, he could transform the pitching staff from average to almost untouchable.

Kyle Simon

The Friday-night assignment is Simon’s for the taking. If he can set the tone as the ace of the staff, the team will be successful.

Road provides extra rest, concentration for Gymcats

was formerly a gymnast at the University of Florida, so she has firsthand knowledge of what the team will experience. Johnson tries to stay away from telling the Gymcats about her personal experience because she wants the team to face it on their own.

“I think we will just constantly remind them to stay calm and to block out the arena,” Johnson said.“I have told them some of my experience, but I have never said, ‘From my own experience.’”

The Gymcats have had a road warrior mentality this season and have often performed much better

on the road.

“It helps us because they get all day to rest,” Ryden said. “All we will be doing tomorrow is sitting on a plane, sitting in a van and then sleeping in a hotel.

“They actually get more rest (before) away meets. I honestly could ask every single one of them, and they would say we are more comfortable on the road.

“You are supposed to be on a plane sitting and sleeping, and they are all very good at sleeping on a plane.”

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B6

• friday, february 19, 2010 • arizona daily wildcat

HOOPS NOTES

ASU

Miller looks for growth to resume

continued from page B1

quiet — I’ve never heard it like that in Tempe.”

This time, the Wildcats will have the McKale Center crowd behind them as they face their third zone defense-oriented team in a row. Unlike the Beavers, who switch between a 1-3-1 and a 2-3 zone, ASU will play with the same match-up zone defense throughout.

“They’re very sound with what they do, they’re on the same page,” Miller said, crediting ASU head coach Herb Sendek for instilling ceaseless effort in his Sun Devil team. “They’re going to win with very, very good halfcourt defense.”

Another focus for the Wildcats is containing the Sun Devils’ 3-point shooting, which Miller said was a catalyst for past ASU wins. Five Sun Devil players shoot at least 37 percent from beyond the arc.

But focusing on themselves is the biggest key for the Wildcats, especially after the humbling loss to Oregon State.

Against the Beavers, Arizona struggled to play a slower-paced, grindit-out style of basketball. When they couldn’t score, which was partially due to poor shooting from key contributors, the Wildcats began forcing shots.

And when the forced shots didn’t fall, those struggles snowballed into poor defense and frustration.

Against ASU, Miller would simply like to see his old team return — the one that had developed maturity and resiliency to go with talent. From the players’ perspective, though, the the answer is simple.

“I just think effort was the most evident thing we needed,” Horne said of the loss to the Beavers. “I think there’s going to be a lot more fire.”

Reflecting on regression Defensive struggles sink Wildcats Shooting through the Fogg

By Kevin Zimmerman Arizona Daily Wildcat Arizona head coach Sean Miller took the media podium Thursday, hoping to clear up his post-game comments following Saturday’s loss to the Oregon State Beavers.

He wanted to give credit where credit was due.

“I don’t know if it came out necessarily after the game like I really wanted it to,”Miller said.“I thought Oregon State did a terrific job. They made key plays in key moments.”

The head coach gave credit not only to the Beavers’execution but also to their success in frustrating the Wildcats.

Acknowledging the lack of effort from his own team, Miller said the loss reminded him of a football game with one team in the lead and the other throwing pass after pass, losing the time-of-possession battle.

“One team has the ball for a total half, and when your team has a chance to go out there, we’re passing the ball.

We’re in a hurry to score,” Miller said.

“It’s 3-and-out.”

In basketball terms, the Wildcats rushed quick shots, attempting to score their way back into the game.

It didn’t work.

Arizona forced a transition game that wasn’t ignited by strong defense. Instead of shooting their way back into the game, they got caught playing poor defense and showing poor shot selection.

“Your offense starts to make you frustrated while you sit on defense for 35 more seconds,” Miller said, adding that his young team’s performance resembled the start of their season in November. “While you break down on defense, you want to make it up right away. It was a sign of an immature team.”

Arizona’s key shooters — notably its starting back-court of sophomore Kyle Fogg and senior Nic Wise — struggled from the field, making the entire team feel pressured to try quick buckets and prompting poor shot selection.

The pair went a combined 2-for-16 against the Beavers and had a frustrating 1:1 assist-to-turnover ratio.

But they learned a lesson.

Miller cited NBA forward Tim Duncan’s poor shooting but relentless rebounding Wednesday, saying that players need to find another aspect of their game to help the team when their shots aren’t falling. The San Antonio Spurs’ big man shot a lowly 4-for-23 from the field but made up for the offnight with 26 rebounds.

Instead of contributing in other areas, the struggling Wildcats became frustrated.

Fogg admitted that he sometimes puts too much pressure on himself and that he let that affect him as the game developed.

“I just let my bad offense get to me on defense,” the starting guard said.

“I just got unfocused and had a bad game that night.”

Fogg wasn’t the only player to struggle. On Sunday, everyone appeared out of sync except junior Jamelle Horne, who had 15 points and 14 rebounds.

“When guys sat and watched film, they kind of realized that they didn’t really play as hard as they maybe thought they were,” Horne said.

Maybe the freshman-heavy Arizona roster hit the so-called “freshman wall.” Miller said he didn’t believe it, but Horne said it was “that time of the season,” where the rigorous schedule caught up to players physically.

“You’re walking around a little slower

Alan WalshArizona Daily Wildcat

Freshman forward Derrick Williams is blocked by an Oregon State defender in the Wildcats’ 63-55 loss on Feb. 13 in McKale Center.

to class than you were,” he joked.

Fogg admitted he had hit a mental wall. He said people had a right to criticize him for playing poorly and that moving on to Sunday’s match-up with ASU is now the main concern.

“Individually, I definitely didn’t do enough to prepare for the game,” Fogg

said.“It definitely showed on the floor.

“I just want to help the team win,” he added. “Really, I just got to be sure to catch up on sleep and go shoot the ball whenever I can, after practice, just at night, on my own.

“Just play ball away from it all, just by myself. That’ll help me get everything together and get focused for Sunday.”

BRIEF

M-golf sits fifth after second round in HI After the second round of play, the UA men’s golf team has climbed to fifth place in the John A. Burns Intercollegiate in Honolulu, Hawaii, although they are now 10 strokes behind leader California which sits at 18-under-par.

After a rough first day, the Wildcats bounced back with four of five players either at or below par. Juniors Jonathan Khan and Tarquin MacManus both bounced back from above-par first rounds, as each shot a 3-under-par 69.

Arizona is five strokes behind fourth place Brigham Young (-13), and two strokes ahead of sixth place Southern Methodist (-6). Cal holds a two-stroke lead over Texas A&M (-16).

For the second consecutive tournament, the Golden Bears have a player in the running for an individual championship, as junior Stephen Hale sits atop the field at 8-below-par.

MacManus is in a tie for 16th at 2-under-par, while Tom Conran, competing as an individual, is in a tie for 57th at 4-above-par.

The final round beings today with a shotgun start at 11 a.m.

— Alex Williams

Olympics quick hits Lysacek upsets Plushenko for gold medal

VANCOUVER, British Columbia — Evan Lysacek brought down the champion.

Lysacek became the first U.S. man to win the Olympic gold medal since Brian Boitano in 1988, shocking everyone - maybe even himself - by upsetting defending champion Evgeni Plushenko on Thursday night. Plushenko came out of retirement with the sole purpose of making a little history of his own with a second straight gold medal.

The last to skate. Plushenko held up both index fingers when he finished, as if to say, “Was there ever any question?” As it turned out, yes.

White’s showstopper caps second Olympic gold

WEST VANCOUVER, British Columbia — The fans were waiting. Shaun White could see them packed in the stands at the bottom of the hill ready for snowboarding’s greatest showman — all of 23 years old — to go do his thing.

Laying down a victory lap for the ages, White put an exclamation point on the most successful day in U.S. Winter Olympics history Wednesday by landing — barely — his latest invention: the Double McTwist 1260.

White has renamed the trick — which requires him to cram two board-over-head flips inside of 3 1/2 turns — “The Tomahawk.”

Focus on Vonn only figures to increase after gold

WHISTLER, British Columbia — A camera caught Lindsey Vonn dabbing on makeup minutes after becoming the first American woman to win an Olympic downhill.

Looking up, she realized the scene was being relayed to a giant videoboard near the finish area.

“I feel like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders,” Vonn said after Wednesday’s victory. “There was a lot of expectations and a lot of pressure coming into these games, and I stood up to that, and I fought back today.”

US men’s hockey beat Norway 6-1

VANCOUVER, British Columbia — It took nearly all 60 minutes for the U.S. hockey team to get the blowout it wanted.

Nursing a two-goal lead for much of the final two periods, the Americans broke it open against Norway on Thursday when defenseman Brian Rafalski scored twice in the final three minutes of a 6-1 victory.

— The Associated Press

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