Arizona’s depth is very apparent. So apparent that coach Sean Miller says the first team’s talent is no different than the second team’s, save for a guy named Derrick Williams.

“One of the things we want to take advantage of – if you’re going to sub and play at 10 players – is that you have to enter with tremendous energy,’’ Miller said. “If nothing else, always do your job on defense as a way of keeping the intensity up.’’

Arizona did for about 30 of the 40 minutes, destroying visiting Idaho State, 90-42, at McKale Center.

Miller said the team’s defense – at least at the starting point – is much better than it was a year ago at the same time. It’s also clear he’ll go to his bench plenty this season. Even deep reserve Daniel Bejarano played as well as all the walk-ons.

“Every time you talk about having a deep bench something happens,’’ Miller joked. “In given games there will be players that will impact the game as much as somebody who starts.’’

College coaches usually go to about 10 players early in the season and whittle it down to an eight or nine-player rotation by the end – even fewer players by March. So, we will see if Miller continues to go to his bench in a big way.

Arizona’s bench scored 43 points with Brendon Lavender scoring 12 points.

“Brendon has been playing very well in practice,’’ Miller said. “I really think that there gets to be a point where how you practice is how you play. I’m seeing that he is a lot more confident in himself and his abilities. And it’s going to give us a big boost off the bench.’’



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