Tucson, Arizona, October 24, 2025
News Summary
Arizona women’s basketball is ready to debut under new head coach Becky Burke with an exhibition game against West Texas A&M. This matchup at McKale Center offers Burke a chance to evaluate her team’s potential and make crucial lineup decisions. The Wildcats have won their previous two exhibition games against the Buffaloes, but West Texas A&M brings strong shooting skills from their recent match against SMU. Fans will be eager to see how the team performs during this significant moment in their season.
Tucson, Ariz. – Arizona women’s basketball is set to debut under new head coach Becky Burke, as the Wildcats prepare to face West Texas A&M in an exhibition game on Thursday, Oct. 23, at 6 p.m. MST at McKale Center. This matchup marks a crucial moment for Burke, providing her with the opportunity to see her team play together in their uniforms for the first time.
The Wildcats have a favorable history against the Buffaloes in previous exhibitions, having won by 25 points last season and 17 points in the 2022-23 season. However, West Texas A&M is coming off an exhibition game against SMU, where they lost 81-69 but showcased impressive shooting skills, hitting 51.8% from the floor and 46.7% from three-point range.
Becky Burke stressed the significance of this game, viewing it as a vital test to evaluate her team’s performance and to help solidify player lineups. One of the concerns heading into the game is the Buffaloes’ rebounding struggles, which were evident in their recent performance against SMU. This could present opportunities for Arizona’s bigger players to capitalize.
Currently, none of the Wildcats’ bigs have secured starting positions, leading to competition for playing time among players such as Achol Magot, Freddie Wallace, Nora Francois, Blessing “Adde” Adebanjo, and Daniah Trammell. Achol Magot, now healthy and improved from past injuries, brings both size and scoring ability to the court. Adebanjo, who has professional experience, is still adapting to the team dynamics. Wallace is working to show consistent effort in practice to earn her place, while Francois is being instilled with the importance of a winning culture in basketball. Freshman Trammell is also navigating her transition to collegiate competition.
The backcourt for Arizona is led by graduate students Lani Cornfield and Micky Perdue, along with junior Sumayah Sugapong. All three players are stepping up as team leaders. Cornfield highlighted the intense and competitive atmosphere fostered by Burke during practice. Sugapong feels she has developed leadership skills and mutual respect with her teammates, supporting the team’s collective goals.
Burke’s coaching philosophy prioritizes discipline, accountability, and a player-led approach, which will be essential as the Wildcats navigate the challenges of the season ahead. With this exhibition game looming, the time is ripe for Arizona to showcase growth and potential under Burke’s guidance.
Fans will not be able to catch the game on television or through streaming services, but the matchup against West Texas A&M will serve as a pivotal starting point for the Wildcats in the new era under Burke.
FAQ
What day and time is the exhibition game between Arizona and West Texas A&M?
The exhibition game is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 23, at 6 p.m. MST at McKale Center in Tucson, Ariz.
What is the history of Arizona’s performance against West Texas A&M in previous exhibitions?
Arizona has won against West Texas A&M in exhibitions before, with the Wildcats winning by 25 points last season and 17 points in 2022-23.
How did West Texas A&M perform in their recent exhibition against SMU?
West Texas A&M recently played an exhibition against SMU, losing 81-69 but demonstrating strong shooting skills, with 51.8% from the floor and 46.7% from three.
Who are some key players competing for starting positions for Arizona?
Players competing for starting positions include Achol Magot, Freddie Wallace, Nora Francois, Blessing “Adde” Adebanjo, and Daniah Trammell.
Who is leading the backcourt for Arizona this season?
The backcourt is led by grad students Lani Cornfield and Micky Perdue, along with junior Sumayah Sugapong.
Key Features of the Arizona Women’s Basketball Exhibition Game
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Game Date and Time | Thursday, Oct. 23, at 6 p.m. MST |
| Location | McKale Center, Tucson, Ariz. |
| Opponent | West Texas A&M |
| Past Performance | Arizona won by 25 points last season and 17 points in 2022-23. |
| Recent Game Result (West Texas A&M) | Lost to SMU 81-69 |
| Shooting Percentage (West Texas A&M against SMU) | 51.8% from the floor and 46.7% from three. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Arizona Desert Swarm: Women’s Basketball Exhibitions
- Wikipedia: Arizona Wildcats Women’s Basketball
- 247 Sports: Arizona Women’s Basketball Notebook
- Google Search: Arizona women’s basketball
- Tucson.com: Arizona Women’s Basketball Updates
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Women’s Basketball
- Arizona Desert Swarm: Arizona Falls to West Texas A&M
- Google News: Arizona Wildcats
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