New Wildcat Dixon Receiving Praise Before Tucson Career

The Arizona Wildcats may have found their Jaden Bradley replacement in the transfer portal in the form of Derek Dixon, and he’s being recognized as one of the better transfers in the country.

Dixon – a freshman transfer from UNC – made his presence known in his rookie season with the Tar Heels. The 6-foot-5 guard averaged 6.5 points and 2.7 assists per game last season, and worked his way into the starting lineup halfway through the season.

Mar 19, 2026; Greenville, SC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels guard Derek Dixon (3) dribbles the ball against the VCU Rams in the first half of a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images | Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

Dixon played a big role once he stepped into the starting lineup, helping the Tar Heels’ offense flow more smoothly, and seeing his production increase in the process. Now, he joins Tommy Lloyd and the Wildcats as they revamp their roster for next season.

Apr 4, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines guard Elliot Cadeau (3) shoots over Arizona Wildcats guard Brayden Burries (5) in the first half during a semifinal of the Final Four of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images | Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Arizona’s Backcourt Looks Different

The Wildcats’ backcourt figures to look incredibly different next season. For starters, Jaden Bradley – the team’s lead guard for three seasons, and this past year’s Big 12 Player of the Year – is out of eligibility and is headed for the NBA Draft.

Arizona Wildcats guard Jaden Bradley (0) shoots the ball during practice ahead of a Final Four game on Friday, April 3, 2026, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. | Christine Tannous/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Additionally, Brayden Burries – who was the Wildcats’ leading scorer – is also headed for the draft, where he is expected to be selected in the lottery. Also, Dwayne Aristode hit the…

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Publish date : 2026-05-04 16:00:00

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