Arizona has a projected starter missing from the lineup for these first three games of the 2022-23 basketball season. Courtney Ramey is serving a minor suspension because the NCAA is nothing if not sticklers for antiquated rules. When he returns, he’s expected to slot into the Wildcats’ starting five in the backcourt next to Kerr Kriisa.

But while he’s out, freshman guard Kylan Boswell is getting a bit more run than he probably expected when he reclassified from the 2023 class and enrolled early at the UA. He saw 23 minutes on the floor in the Wildcats’ season-opening win over Nicholls, and he played another 22 minutes Friday night against Southern.

Coach Tommy Lloyd thinks the freshman has handled himself with some poise even in the face of higher-pressure looks from opponents.

Kriisa had a more colorful reaction to Boswell’s arrival.

“When Kylan came and he said he’s 17, I almost shit my pants… sorry, poop, whatever. The kid is 17,” Kriisa after Friday night’s win. “Actually me and Pelle (Larsson), we went back and watched the (tape) when we were 17. We didn’t even look close to what Kylan is doing on the court and the IQ he has. Kylan’s really coming along, obviously he has a lot to learn, but I think we’re there to help him. He’s going to be a great point guard for this program in the future.”

Boswell had four points and five assists in the Wildcats’ 95-78 win over Southern on Friday. He had eight points and five assists in the season-opener.

“I think he’s doing a good job settling in and figuring out what it’s like at this level,” said Lloyd. “I think as he continues to get some games under his belt, some minutes, he’s really going to help us, which is huge. Obviously, we’re gonna get Courtney back soon, and that’s gonna help our overall depth, but I’m more than comfortable with Kylan Boswell on the floor.”

The Wildcats (2-0) host Utah Tech next Thursday.