The Arizona State Sun Devils are making headlines with a strong start to their basketball season, showcasing impressive statistics and contributions from both new players and seasoned veterans.
Point guard Moe Odum has had a standout performance, boasting a remarkable assist-to-turnover ratio of 2.75, ranking second in the nation, along with 539 career assists, which puts him third all-time in program history. His ability to facilitate the game is evident as he averages 5.34 assists per game, positioning him seventh nationally.
The Sun Devils’ bench has also proven to be a significant asset this season. Reserves like Allen Mukeba have stepped up, leading the team in rebounds and blocks during the opening game, while Pig Johnson emerged as the top scorer in the victory over Utah Tech. Overall, Arizona State holds a commanding 75-50 advantage in bench points this season, reflecting the depth and talent of their roster.
Transition play has become a hallmark of the Sun Devils’ strategy, as they lead the nation in fast-break points, averaging 19.3 per game. They have outscored opponents in fast breaks in all three of their games, with two contests surpassing 20 fast-break points.
Freshman center Massamba Diop has made his mark as one of the most promising newcomers in college basketball. Earning a starting role on opening night, he delivered a strong performance with 14 points, five rebounds, and three blocks against Southern Utah, followed by a game-high 18 points in the win over Utah Tech. With an early season average of 14.3 points per game, Diop is already becoming a key player for the Sun Devils.
Defensively, Arizona State has excelled, limiting opponents to just 25% shooting from three-point range, which ranks among the best in the country and solidifies their top standing in the Big 12.
The Sun Devils have also shown remarkable proficiency from beyond the arc, making an average of 9.3 three-pointers per game, a promising start after finishing fourth in program history last season with 287 made three-pointers.
Under head coach Bobby Hurley, Arizona State faces a challenging schedule, with eight games against teams from the latest AP Top 25 rankings, including three in the top ten. This sets the stage for exciting competition as the Sun Devils navigate their way through a tough college basketball landscape.
With a roster that features players from various countries and a deep pool of talent, the Sun Devils are poised to continue building on their strong start, invigorating their fanbase and aiming for a successful season ahead.