Bahn: Red Wolves Embracing Bold Vision For The Future; Shanita Arnold Returns 'Home'

Home

Bahn: Red Wolves Embracing Bold Vision For The Future; Shanita Arnold Returns 'Home'

by Chris Bahn on Friday, Dec. 16, 2011 3:31 pm

Sun Belt player of the year Ryan Aplin doesn't doubt the Red Wolves can crank the Top 25 and be a consistent Sun Belt winner under new coach Gus Malzahn. (Photo by Mark Wagner)

This story is from the archives of ArkansasSports360.com.

“This job appeals to me.”

And, in talking with Aplin, it’s clear the players aren’t intimidated by the idea of improving the program’s standing nationally.

Welcome Home
This weekend is a homecoming of sorts for Arizona point guard Shanita Arnold.

Arnold, a Fort Smith native, will lead the Wildcats into a Sunday game with UAPB. Tipoff is set for 1 p.m.

Arizona has improved significantly with Arnold, a transfer from Arkansas, running the point. In her first season, the Wildcats went from 12 to 14 wins and they won 21 in 2010-11.

Arnold averaged 31.6 minutes, 7.0 points, 2.0 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game last season as one of the Pac-10’s top point guards. She enters the game averaging 9.8 points and 4.8 assists per game with starts in eight of nine games.

Arizona enters 8-1. UAPB is 0-8 entering its first home game of the season.

It's common practice for Wildcats Coach Niya Butts to schedule a game in the home state of senior players.