University of Arizona freshman Koa Peat made headlines with a stunning debut on November 3, scoring 30 points, alongside seven rebounds and five assists, leading the Wildcats to a 93-87 victory over the defending national champions, the University of Florida.
At just 18 years old, Peat etched his name into Big 12 history as only the second freshman to score 30 or more points in their first game, following Kansas State's Michael Beasley, who achieved 32 points in 2007.
“It was a coming out party for him,” remarked Arizona head coach Tommy Lloyd post-game. “Everyone’s known about him, but no one’s really studied him. He’s a special player.”
Born and raised in Gilbert, Arizona, Koa grew up in a sports-oriented family as the youngest of seven siblings. His family’s athletic legacy is impressive; his brother Todd Jr. played football at Nebraska and Texas A&M-Commerce, while Andrus, another brother, is a 10-year NFL veteran currently with the Pittsburgh Steelers after playing at Stanford.
His brother Cassius also played football at Michigan State and Virginia. Sisters Leilani and Maya both pursued college basketball, with Leilani playing at Seattle University and Maya at Arkansas-Pine Bluff and Texas Tech. The youngest sibling, Keona, is now on the University of Arizona football team.
“Me and Koa growing up we’re like two peas in a pod,” Keona shared in an interview. “We shared a room up until I was in high school. That’s my best friend.”
Koa’s parents, Todd Sr. and Jana Peat, also have athletic backgrounds. Todd Sr., an All-American at Northern Illinois, enjoyed a six-year NFL career as an offensive lineman with the Cardinals and Raiders. Jana was an athlete in her own right, excelling in basketball, volleyball, and softball during high school.
“I have to pinch myself sometimes,” Jana expressed about her children’s achievements. “I just can’t believe how God has blessed us.”
Before joining the Wildcats, Koa had an illustrious high school career at Gilbert Perry High School, where he led his team to four consecutive state championships, even playing through a broken hand during his senior year.
“It was the will,” said Perry coach Sam Duane Jr. “Honestly, I’ve never had a player so determined to play in my career.”
Koa was heavily recruited by Auburn University before ultimately committing to Arizona. After his impressive debut, former Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl humorously reminded him of their past interactions during a postgame interview.
“Hey, Koa. This is coach Bruce Pearl,” he said. “Do you remember when I traveled to Istanbul trying to chase you and AJ Dybantsa?”
Koa responded affirmatively, recalling his connection with Dybantsa, who committed to BYU instead.
The name Koa means “strong warrior” in Hawaiian, a choice made by his mother, who hails from Hawaii. Following his standout performance against Florida, Koa shared a message from ESPN analyst Fran Fraschilla that highlighted the significance of his name.
“Koa means ‘strong warrior’ in Hawaiian. Mom knew something,” Fraschilla noted.
