Arizona’s Rising Basketball Legacy: Building the Future with Larry Strickland and Maurice Simpson
Sports Illustrated – May 1987
The University of Arizona Wildcats have quietly been building something special out west. Long overshadowed by powerhouses like UCLA and UNLV, the Wildcats are now emerging as one of the most intriguing programs in college basketball — thanks to their sharp recruiting eye and a growing reputation for developing complete, pro-ready players.
The Newest Gem: Larry Strickland from Glenbrook North
Arizona’s latest coup is Larry Strickland, a smooth 6’7” small forward from Glenbrook North High School (Illinois). Strickland has been one of the most sought-after prospects in the class of 1987, known for his high basketball IQ, defensive range, and mid-range touch that scouts describe as “pro-level polished.”
Head coach Lute Olson made Strickland a top priority early, battling Big Ten programs like Indiana and Illinois before landing his commitment in a late-spring signing that sent ripples across the recruiting landscape.
Strickland himself has been vocal about why he chose Arizona:
Maurice Simpson: The Oak Hill Enforcer
Already on campus is Maurice Simpson, a 6’9” power forward out of Oak Hill Academy, who has been the team’s interior anchor since his arrival. Simpson, known for his physicality and rebounding presence, has quickly become a fan favorite in Tucson.
Scouts describe Simpson as a “throwback forward” — rugged, disciplined, and relentless on the glass. His combination of size and defensive awareness has made him a crucial part of Arizona’s evolving identity.
A Program on the Rise
Under Olson’s leadership, Arizona’s recruiting philosophy has been clear: target versatile, high-character players who fit into a structured, balanced offense. In recent years, the Wildcats have landed players from powerhouse programs like DeMatha, Oak Hill, and Christ the King, turning their recruiting classes into statements of intent.
Arizona’s roster has quietly become one of the deepest in the Pac-10, and their mix of young talent and veteran leadership could soon propel them into national contention.
With a blend of Midwest toughness and southern athleticism joining Tucson’s desert culture, the Wildcats are becoming a legitimate national threat — the kind of team that could soon stand toe-to-toe with college basketball’s elite.
Sports Illustrated – May 1987
The University of Arizona Wildcats have quietly been building something special out west. Long overshadowed by powerhouses like UCLA and UNLV, the Wildcats are now emerging as one of the most intriguing programs in college basketball — thanks to their sharp recruiting eye and a growing reputation for developing complete, pro-ready players.
The Newest Gem: Larry Strickland from Glenbrook North
Arizona’s latest coup is Larry Strickland, a smooth 6’7” small forward from Glenbrook North High School (Illinois). Strickland has been one of the most sought-after prospects in the class of 1987, known for his high basketball IQ, defensive range, and mid-range touch that scouts describe as “pro-level polished.”
Head coach Lute Olson made Strickland a top priority early, battling Big Ten programs like Indiana and Illinois before landing his commitment in a late-spring signing that sent ripples across the recruiting landscape.
“Larry brings balance and maturity,” Olson said. “He can score, defend multiple positions, and he plays with a team-first mindset — exactly the kind of player we want representing Arizona basketball.”
Strickland himself has been vocal about why he chose Arizona:
“Coach Olson’s track record with wings and forwards is incredible,” Strickland told local reporters. “I want to grow in a system that values fundamentals and lets players develop the right way.”
Maurice Simpson: The Oak Hill Enforcer
Already on campus is Maurice Simpson, a 6’9” power forward out of Oak Hill Academy, who has been the team’s interior anchor since his arrival. Simpson, known for his physicality and rebounding presence, has quickly become a fan favorite in Tucson.
Scouts describe Simpson as a “throwback forward” — rugged, disciplined, and relentless on the glass. His combination of size and defensive awareness has made him a crucial part of Arizona’s evolving identity.
“Maurice plays like every rebound belongs to him,” said assistant coach Ricky Byrdsong. “He’s got that motor that separates great players from good ones.”
A Program on the Rise
Under Olson’s leadership, Arizona’s recruiting philosophy has been clear: target versatile, high-character players who fit into a structured, balanced offense. In recent years, the Wildcats have landed players from powerhouse programs like DeMatha, Oak Hill, and Christ the King, turning their recruiting classes into statements of intent.
Arizona’s roster has quietly become one of the deepest in the Pac-10, and their mix of young talent and veteran leadership could soon propel them into national contention.
“We’re not chasing names,” Olson said. “We’re building a foundation. Larry Strickland and Maurice Simpson are part of that future.”
With a blend of Midwest toughness and southern athleticism joining Tucson’s desert culture, the Wildcats are becoming a legitimate national threat — the kind of team that could soon stand toe-to-toe with college basketball’s elite.
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