The Arizona Wildcats are set to host the Arizona State Sun Devils at McKale Center on Wednesday night, aiming to maintain their perfect season. Currently standing at 16-0, the Wildcats are ranked No. 1 in the nation and boast an impressive average winning margin of 23 points per game.
ASU head coach Bobby Hurley acknowledged the Wildcats’ strengths, stating, “They’re very good on the interior. They’re one of the best scoring teams in the paint in the country. Their guards really attack the basketball as well.” Arizona’s strong performance includes five victories over top-15 opponents, two of which were against top-three teams.
Meanwhile, ASU enters the game with a record of 10-6, having experienced a recent slump with four consecutive losses before bouncing back to defeat Kansas State 87-84 on Saturday. The Sun Devils have shown resilience in close contests, boasting a 5-2 record in games decided by seven points or fewer; however, their overall scoring margin remains just +1.9, with an average margin of defeat nearing 12 points. Hurley expressed a desire for his team to secure more decisive wins, saying, “We’ve got to blow some teams out a little more often.”
The rivalry has heavily favored Arizona in recent years, as they have triumphed in the last five matchups and 10 of the last 11. Hurley noted the challenges of playing in Tucson, reflecting on his personal struggles with just two wins in 10 attempts at the venue. Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd emphasized the importance of focusing on processes over outcomes, expressing confidence in his team’s approach.
Statistically, Arizona ranks high across various categories: they are second in the nation for points in the paint per game, boast a strong rebound margin and scoring margin, and hold an impressive shooting percentage. Freshman forward Koa Peat leads the Wildcats with an average of 14.8 points per game, while junior center Motiejus Krivas excels in field goal percentage (59.8%) and blocking (29). Senior guard Jaden Bradley also contributes significantly, leading the team with 73 assists and maintaining an average of 13.6 points.
In contrast, ASU’s success has been powered by senior guards Moe Odum and Anthony “Pig” Johnson. Odum is the team’s leading scorer with 16.4 points per game while also providing solid playmaking. Johnson, having transitioned into a starting role, is another critical contributor.
To compete against Arizona’s formidable offense, ASU will need to solidify their defense and improve their perimeter shooting; recent games have seen them struggling from beyond the arc, shooting less than 20% over their last five contests. Hurley is optimistic that once a few players get hot from long range, the entire team’s shooting performance can improve.
The highly anticipated matchup is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. MST on Wednesday and will be broadcast on Arizona Sports 98.7 and FS1. This clash of in-state rivals not only promises an exciting game but also carries significant implications for both teams as they navigate their respective seasons.