Arizona men’s basketball fell short to Duke in the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament but the Wildcats were without their impactful Lithuanian center.
It was a long sophomore year for Motiejus Krivas as he sat out for the season after eight games due to a foot injury.
He was averaging 7.9 points per game and 4.5 rebounds per game before the injury.
Krivas admitted in a press conference on Thursday that it was an emotional year but has grown a lot from it.
“I learned that nothing is granted. Nothing is given to you, and I just learned to become a student of the game and don’t feel bad for myself,” Krivas said.
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“It was hard, but all the time I was just thinking how I’ll be able to get back on rehab and get back to playing this season.
Krivas was heavily watched by NBA scouts heading into last season because of his height and coordination. He was a projected late first round and early second round selection in the 2025 NBA Draft before the injury.
Krivas was in the starting lineup to start the season last year but had some help from backup centers Tobe Awaka and Henri Vessar when he went out.
Awaka joined Krivas in the press conference acknowledging that he’s excited to play with Krivas on the court if head coach Tommy Lloyd sees fit.
“For sure. I don’t see why not. I think we would be a great one-two punch, one-two combo. The coaches have their game plan and that might be more matchup oriented,” Awaka said.
Krivas added that he agreed with what Awaka said but ultimately, it’s up to their coach.
There is much improvement Krivas can add to his game including from the 3-pointer. He kept it brief saying it can create more opportunities for the offense.
“Just trying to work as much as I can, make the shot stable as I can and because it opens up a lot of things for the team,” Krivas said.
Krivas is one of the veteran players returning for the team joined by Awaka, Jaden Bradley and Anthony Dell’Orso.
Arizona has added young freshman talent to their roster including five stars Koa Peat and Brayden Burries.
Ultimately, the leadership from Krivas and his recovery will help lead to his goal: “To win the national championship,” Krivas said.
Arizona starts their season in Las Vegas on Nov. 3 against defending national champions Florida.
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