Arizona Projected Starting Lineup After Portal Closing

Arizona is coming off a very successful 2025-26 season. They earned 36 wins, the most in a single season in program history. Additionally, they won the Big 12 regular season and conference tournament. Then, of course, the Wildcats made the Final Four for the first time since 2001.

The deadline to declare for the upcoming NBA draft was last night. So, now we have a clearer picture of what the Wildcats’ starting lineup could look like next season. There is still a chance the team brings in someone through the transfer portal, but as of now, here is the projected starting five, looking to build on last season’s success.

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PG: Derek Dixon

Derek Dixon is coming off his freshman season at North Carolina. He averaged 6.5 points and 2.7 assists in his first year. He was moved to the starting point guard role in the middle of the season and remained there in the final 16 games of the Tar Heels’ season. His numbers increased to 8.5 points and 3.3 assists during his time as a starter.

Dixon will bring much-needed three-point shooting to the Wildcats. He shot 39.7% from deep last season, which earned him the third-highest three-point shooting percentage by a freshman in UNC history. Along with shooting, Dixon will be a terrific floor general for the Wildcats. He likes to push the ball off a rebound and reward his big men with easy buckets. Dixon will be replacing Big 12 Player of the Year Jaden Bradley.

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SG: Caleb Holt

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Caleb Holt is a 6-foot-5 guard out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He is ranked as the best prospect in Florida and the third-best nationally, according to 247Sports. Holt officially committed to Arizona on March 10 of this year. He dominated at the Nike Hoop Summit on Team USA.

Holt has the potential to be a top-five pick in the NBA Draft. He can score on all three levels on the court, and Holt is more than just a scorer. He has the potential to be a lockdown defender at the college level with his frame. Holt recorded…

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Publish date : 2026-04-25 13:00:00

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