Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd used his appearance before the Board of Regents to make a simple point: his responsibilities extend beyond wins and losses. The Wildcats’ coach, fresh off a Final Four run in 2025-26, was granted a new five-year, $37.5 million contract, but told regents he’s ready to move past the praise and concentrate on keeping the program competitive and connected to the community.
That task is complicated by a shifting college-basketball landscape. Arizona faces notable frontcourt departures at a time when top transfer bigs are commanding multi‑million dollar packages, and proposed eligibility changes that would allow a fifth year for some players could alter roster plans if enacted quickly. One senior who accompanied Lloyd to the meeting said he would consider a fifth season if the rule became law, but most veteran players seem focused on finishing spring classes and preparing for draft periods.
Lloyd has already moved on additions in the portal, bringing in North Carolina transfer Derek Dixon and Washington transfer JJ Mandaquit. Both recruits trace back to long-standing evaluations: Dixon drew attention as a high school standout, while Mandaquit was on Arizona’s radar from his prep days and played for Lloyd with USA Basketball last summer. Lloyd described Dixon as a big, versatile guard with shooting and playmaking skills, and praised Mandaquit’s competitive grit and character, saying both fit the kind of pieces Arizona wants.
With Braden Burries likely to test the NBA and Jaden Bradley already entering the draft, the newcomers help create a crowded, versatile backcourt. Five-star freshman Caleb Holt is expected to slide into a shooting guard role, Dixon can play either guard spot and Mandaquit could start at the point or provide a spark off the bench—similar to how Bradley initially settled into a complementary role before becoming a key starter.
The frontcourt picture remains more uncertain. Koa Peat is anticipated to pursue the NBA, while center Motiejus Krivas and forward Ivan Kharchenkov could return if they choose not to test professional waters. Lloyd stressed he’ll respect players’ decisions—letting prospects explore the draft and then having candid conversations if they express interest in coming back—rather than try to strong-arm a return. He also acknowledged the budgeting challenge: last season Arizona’s roster spending was estimated near $10 million, and paying market price for one portal player can affect the balance across a roster.
Looking ahead, Lloyd said Arizona will continue to cast a wide net, including international targets, and take advantage of new rules that allow teams to travel overseas more frequently for evaluation and development. He emphasized patience with the process—building sustained success, he said, requires thoughtful recruiting, steady decision‑making and a long-term approach rather than quick fixes.
