Law enforcement prepares for crowds as Final Four fever builds Tucson-area law enforcement is ramping up preparations for potential large gatherings as the University of Arizona Wildcats face off in the Final Four on Saturday. Capt. Lauren Pettey of the Tucson Police Department emphasized that heightened security measures will be in place to manage crowds and ensure public safety. “Saturday evening, you will see enhanced law enforcement presence both on University Boulevard, Congress, and Fourth Avenue,” Pettey said, noting that officers will be equipped with riot gear to address any escalations. The increased security follows a history of violent incidents during past NCAA tournaments. In 2001, fans erupted in chaos after Arizona’s loss to Duke in the national title game, leading to street confrontations, property damage, and clashes with police. A similar outbreak occurred in 2014 after the Wildcats’ Elite Eight defeat to Wisconsin, with fans reportedly setting cars on fire and hurling bottles and cans at officers. These events have left a lasting impact on local authorities, prompting proactive planning for this year’s game. Local businesses, including bars and restaurants, are also bracing for the influx of fans. Jonathan Graham of Frog & Firkin, a popular downtown establishment, acknowledged the risk of past unrest but expressed hope for a more subdued atmosphere. “We don’t need the police coming in with the sandbags or the tear gas, which we’ve seen in the past, but that was a long time ago,” he said, adding that the current climate might be more “chill.#tucson_police_department #university_of_arizona #final_four #capt_lauren_pettey #frog_and_firkin
New U of A Study Will Investigate Growth Hormones and Cognitive Aging in Dogs Large dogs live shorter lives than smaller breeds, yet their brains appear to age just as slowly, revealing a surprising disconnect between lifespan and cognitive decline. Researchers from the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine are exploring this phenomenon, which they encountered while studying how dogs age. While large breeds tend to live shorter lives than their smaller counterparts, their brains seem to age at the same speed. This observation has led to a new study aimed at understanding the biological mechanisms behind aging and cognitive function in dogs. Evan MacLean, an associate professor of veterinary medicine, is leading the research. He is particularly interested in the impact of the IGF-1 growth hormone on cognitive aging in elderly dogs, including his own pet, Sisu. MacLean noted that conventional wisdom would suggest large dogs like Great Danes develop signs of dementia around 8 years old, while small dogs like Chihuahuas might experience a later onset, such as in their teens. However, the data shows no such pattern. Instead, the relationship between age and cognitive performance seems consistent across all dog breeds, despite significant differences in their lifespans. MacLean explained that this implies large dogs may simply die before exhibiting cognitive dysfunction. To delve deeper into the biological factors driving aging, MacLean is launching the Study of IGF-1, Neurocognitive Aging and Longevity (SIGNAL). This project will investigate how the growth hormone IGF-1 influences cognitive aging in dogs. The research aims to determine whether dogs of similar size age differently based on their circulating levels of IGF-1.#american_kennel_club #university_of_arizona #evan_maclean #great_danes #chihuahuas
University of Arizona Alum Shares Unique Game-Day Ritual Ashley Hendrickson, a 2001 University of Arizona graduate and lifelong fan, has developed a distinctive game-day ritual that has become a staple of her experience watching the Wildcats’ men’s basketball games. Her routine, which blends personal tradition with a sense of community, has grown so ingrained that it now involves friends and fellow fans who eagerly track her every move. Hendrickson’s dedication to her ritual began in childhood, when her parents took her to games with three season tickets. Over the years, her fandom evolved into a structured pre-game routine. She describes her approach as a way to feel connected to the team and, perhaps, exert a small measure of control over the outcome. “Anything that might sway the game in the Cats’ favor for us to win, I’m pretty much down for it as long as someone is willing to bail me out of jail,” she said, referencing the lengths she’ll go to for her tradition. Her ritual centers around a specific wardrobe routine. She wears the same outfit—shirt, jeans, socks, bracelets, and earrings—every game. If the Wildcats start losing, she alters her attire in a deliberate sequence. “I start by taking the left bracelet off, and if that doesn’t make an incredible difference right away, immediately the right bracelets come off,” she explained. The timing of these changes is often unpredictable, but she insists the ritual has moments of success. One memorable instance occurred during a 2024 game against Utah. The Wildcats entered triple overtime, and Hendrickson kept changing shirts, with the game tied each time. After exhausting all her shirts, she removed her clothing entirely, sitting under a blanket. “We won,” she said, highlighting the bizarre yet symbolic culmination of her routine.#tucson #university_of_arizona #ashley_hendrickson #kgun_9 #jackie_aguilar
Where will Bryce James play next season as transfer portal rumors hint at a possible return home Bryce James, the youngest son of LeBron James, is currently a freshman at the University of Arizona, though he has yet to make an official appearance in college basketball. The 6'6" guard, who has been sitting on the bench for Arizona’s NCAA tournament run, is now at the center of speculation about his future. As the March Madness tournament advances toward the Sweet 16, the focus on Arizona’s championship aspirations has shifted to a quieter subplot involving James’ potential departure. The transfer portal, which opens on April 7, presents a critical deadline for James. With only two weeks to make a decision, the pressure mounts as he weighs his options. While no official statements have been made from his family or agent, the context of the modern college basketball landscape makes his situation unique. High-profile freshmen who don’t see significant playing time often seek opportunities to showcase their skills sooner, especially with the rise of NIL deals and immediate eligibility. Arizona’s roster, packed with elite talent like Koa Peat and Brayden Burries, leaves little room for James to secure a starting role in Tommy Lloyd’s system. The narrative of a potential transfer leans toward a return to Ohio State, where James was a top recruit in 2024. The Buckeyes, led by coach Jake Diebler, have maintained competitiveness in the Big Ten, and their system aligns with James’ strengths. A move to Columbus would provide him with a guaranteed role, as Diebler’s offense thrives on versatile wings.#big_ten #lebron_james #ohio_state #bryce_james #university_of_arizona
Bryce James NBA Draft scouting report: Why LeBron's son is taking a redshirt path at Arizona Bryce James, the son of NBA legend LeBron James, has chosen to redshirt his first season at the University of Arizona, a decision that has sparked widespread discussion about his potential impact in the NBA Draft. Despite the high expectations surrounding his name, Arizona has opted to prioritize his development over immediate contributions, allowing him to refine his game without the pressure of playing in high-stakes games. The 6-foot-5 freshman guard has yet to see court time this season, a move that reflects Arizona’s strategy to mold him into a well-rounded player. While his family name brings attention, the focus remains on his growth rather than his current performance. James arrived at Arizona as a promising but unproven prospect, with flashes of talent in high school but limited opportunities to showcase his skills. His inconsistency and lack of a defined role have made him a long-term project rather than an immediate contributor. James’s strengths lie in his shooting ability and physical tools. He possesses a natural perimeter shot, capable of spacing the floor and making key plays when in rhythm. His size and athleticism further enhance his potential, allowing him to defend and finish plays effectively. These attributes position him as a candidate for a versatile wing role, but his development hinges on consistency and refining his offensive skills. However, his weaknesses are equally notable. His shooting has been streaky, with periods of brilliance followed by stretches where his jumper fails to fall. Beyond that, he has yet to establish a reliable method of creating offense. When his shot isn’t falling, he hasn’t found alternative ways to impact the game at a high level.#lebron_james #college_basketball #nba_draft #bryce_james #university_of_arizona
University of Arizona Core Facilities Highlight Mass Spectrometry Research Mass spectrometry has become an essential tool for researchers exploring the molecular intricacies of diverse materials, from biological samples to extraterrestrial substances. The University of Arizona’s Analytical and Biological Mass Spectrometry Core Facility plays a pivotal role in this scientific endeavor, offering advanced instrumentation and expertise to scientists across disciplines. The facility, directed by Krishna Parsawar, is dedicated to analyzing complex samples to determine their molecular composition. This process involves measuring the mass-to-charge ratio of ionized molecules, enabling precise identification of structures, molecular weights, and impurities. Such accuracy is critical for understanding how chemical compounds behave, ensuring their safety, and evaluating their effectiveness. Parsawar emphasized the versatility of mass spectrometry, noting that it is indispensable for researchers tackling a wide range of questions. For example, pharmaceutical chemists use the technology to study drug metabolism and efficacy, while forensic scientists analyze trace evidence from crime scenes. Planetary scientists have even applied it to lunar dust samples, and historians employ it to examine ancient artifacts. The facility’s state-of-the-art equipment and team of specialists support collaborations with researchers from the university’s Cancer Center and beyond. One notable project involved analyzing mummy samples, where scientists examined dyes used in ancient textiles and hair composition from 5,000-year-old remains. These studies highlight the technology’s ability to uncover insights into historical and scientific mysteries.#university_of_arizona #krishna_parsawar #bio5_institute #thomas_keating_building
University of Arizona to Host 2026 National Wheelchair Basketball Tournament in April The University of Arizona will host the 2026 National Intercollegiate Wheelchair Basketball Tournament at McKale Center at Alkeme Arena in April. The event will run from April 1 to April 4, featuring 12 men’s teams competing in a modified bracket and four women’s teams starting in the semi-finals. The selection of the University of Arizona as host was announced following the men’s team’s victory at last year’s national championship in Illinois. The tournament will bring together top collegiate adaptive athletes from across the country, showcasing the competitive spirit of wheelchair basketball. Additional details about the event can be found online.#university_of_arizona #mckale_center #alkeme_arena #national_wheelchair_basketball_tournament #national_championship
Arizona Adaptive Athletics Set to Host 2026 National Wheelchair Basketball Tournament The University of Arizona’s Adaptive Athletics program is preparing to welcome dozens of top collegiate adaptive athletes to McKale Center at ALKEME Arena from April 1-4 for the 2026 National Intercollegiate Wheelchair Basketball Tournament. The event, hosted by the university, will feature 12 men’s teams and four women’s teams competing across two divisions. The opportunity to host came after the U of A men’s wheelchair basketball team won the national championship last year, marking their third consecutive finals appearance and first title. The tournament is free for university students and employees to attend. Adaptive Athletics Director Peter Hughes emphasized the significance of hosting the national championships for the university and its adaptive athletics program. “It elevates our presence on campus,” Hughes said. “We’ve been around for 51 years, but we’re still something of a secret. When I took over eight years ago, we decided to focus only on students and compete in the NWBA’s collegiate division. We stood in line and waited for our chance to host nationals, and when it was our turn, we were ready.” The university’s support, including the use of McKale Center, was crucial to the event’s success. Hughes previewed the competition, noting that while the men’s division remains unpredictable, the women’s side has a clear favorite. Alabama, which has dominated the women’s tournament for years, faces stiff competition after losing two games this season for the first time in years. “The competition has become much tighter and more exciting,” Hughes said. “I’m thrilled about that because you don’t want to see any real stinker games.#university_of_arizona #mckale_center #alkeme_arena #peter_hughes
