For all of the McDonald’s All-Americans and five-star recruits that have committed to play for Sean Miller, Arizona has yet to reach a Final Four under his guidance. That’s not to say his tenure has been a failure, but at some point, signing day promises must be fulfilled.
Could next season’s group be the one to do it? We head to Tucson in our latest Recruit and Reload edition.
Key Losses: Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (NBA Draft), Brandon Ashley (NBA Draft), T.J. McConnell (graduation)
Possible Losses: Stanley Johnson
Key Returners: Kaleb Tarczewski, Gabe York
Key Newcomers: Ray Smith (five-star, small forward), Allonzo Trier (five-star, shooting guard), Justin Simon (five-star, point guard), Chance Comanche (four-star, center)
Breakdown: At one point, it looked like Sean Miller might lose his entire starting five to graduation and the NBA Draft. With Tarczewski returning, and possibly even Johnson, next year’s Wildcats could have a very talented mix of veterans and newcomers. The likes of Gabe York and Elliot Pitts will give UA outside shooting and experience on the outside, while Parker Jackson-Cartwright could keep the PG spot warm while Simon adjusts to college ball. Trier is more talented than York, but will have more demanded from him, defensively, then he might be ready for on day one. Smith’s recovery from an ACL injury in 2014 will be vital, as he could give UA the same type of athletic versatility that Hollis-Jefferson did his freshman season. Ultimately, though, this outlook greatly depends on what decision Johnson makes about his NBA future. If he leaves, Arizona will still be very talented but will really lean on Smith to be healthy and ready right away. If he returns, there may not be a more explosive 1-2 punch at SF than Arizona in the entire country. Johnson would also be one of the few early season favorites for National Player of the Year.
