Arizona’s long-awaited reunion with New Mexico was a mismatch from the start.
The Wildcats took an early 12-0 lead while the Lobos missed their first 11 shots, and Arizona was never challenged while winning 77-46 at McKale Center in the first game between the regional rivals in 17 seasons.
Arizona had five players score in double figures, with freshman guard Rawle Alkins collecting his first double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds, while sophomore center Chance Comanche had a career high 14 points. Lauri Markkanen added 13 points and nine rebounds.
Although the Wildcats and Lobos had played each other 125 times over the past century, having competed together in the Border and Western Athletic conferences, the series went dormant after former coach Lute Olson vowed not to schedule the Lobos again following a controversial 1998-99 loss.