The Arizona State Sun Devils men’s basketball program represents Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona. Established in 1911, the team boasts a rich history and has evolved into a significant competitor in collegiate basketball. Currently competing in the Big 12 Conference, the Sun Devils have a passionate fanbase and a legacy of memorable moments. This article delves into the program’s history, recent performance, coaching staff, key players, recruiting efforts, fan support, notable alumni, conference affiliations, and NCAA tournament appearances, addressing key aspects that fans and followers often inquire about.
A Century of Hoops: Tracing the History of Sun Devils Basketball
The Arizona State basketball program’s roots trace back to the 1911-12 season. Over its 113 seasons, the team has amassed a record of 1481 wins and 1325 losses. Initially competing in various conferences, including the Border Conference and the Western Athletic Conference (WAC), the Sun Devils found a long-term home in the Pac-10 Conference (later the Pac-12) before their recent move to the Big 12 in the 2024-25 season.
The program has secured eight regular-season conference championships, with four coming in the WAC and four in the Border Conference. While a conference tournament title has eluded them, the Sun Devils have made 17 appearances in the NCAA Tournament, showcasing their competitive spirit on the national stage.
Early highlights include three Elite Eight appearances in 1961, 1963, and 1975, demonstrating periods of significant success. The program has also been recognized in the AP Poll on several occasions, further solidifying its place in college basketball history.
The 2024-25 Season: Navigating the Big 12 Landscape
The 2024-25 season marked a new chapter for Arizona State as they transitioned to the Big 12 Conference. In a challenging inaugural season in a new conference, the team recorded an overall record of 13 wins and 20 losses, with a 4-16 mark in Big 12 play. The Sun Devils participated in the inaugural College Basketball Crown tournament, facing Nebraska in the first round on March 31, 2025, where they were defeated 78-86.
Looking at the team statistics for the 2024-25 season, Arizona State averaged 74.1 points per game while allowing 76.8 points. Their field goal percentage stood at 43.9%, and they shot 35.6% from beyond the arc, averaging 8.7 three-pointers per game. Rebounding was an area where they faced a deficit, averaging 34.0 rebounds per game compared to their opponents’ 37.2.
The Architect: Head Coach Bobby Hurley and the Coaching Staff
The Arizona State basketball program is currently led by Head Coach Bobby Hurley. A former Duke University standout and NBA player, Hurley brings a wealth of experience and a competitive drive to the Sun Devils. Appointed in 2015, he has guided the team through periods of success, including NCAA Tournament appearances.
His coaching staff plays a crucial role in player development, recruiting, and game strategy. While specific assistant coaches may change, the focus remains on building a cohesive and effective team under Hurley’s leadership.
The Current Roster: Key Players and Dynamics
The Arizona State Sun Devils’ roster for the 2024-25 season featured a mix of experienced players and new talent. Key players included individuals who contributed significantly in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. Some of the players listed on the roster include Jayden Quaintance, Joson Sanon, Adam Miller, BJ Freeman, and Alston Mason. The team composition aimed to create a balanced attack and a strong defensive presence.
It’s important to note that college basketball rosters can change from year to year due to graduation, transfers, and new recruits. For the most up-to-date roster information, official university athletics websites are the most reliable source.
Recruiting the Future: Building a Competitive Program
Recruiting is the lifeblood of any successful college basketball program, and Arizona State actively seeks talented high school and transfer players to bolster their roster. The coaching staff focuses on identifying athletes who fit their playing style and culture. Recent recruiting news and commitments often generate significant interest among fans. For instance, there were reports in January 2025 about Arizona State landing a highly touted forward, Kash Polk, highlighting their efforts to secure promising talent.
Fan Support and Atmosphere: The Home Court Advantage
The Arizona State Sun Devils enjoy a dedicated fanbase that creates a vibrant atmosphere at their home games in Desert Financial Arena. Fan attendance figures reflect the level of support the team receives. In the 2024-25 season, the total attendance for 14 home games was 121,021, averaging 8,644 fans per game. This strong home support can provide a significant advantage for the team.
Notable Alumni: Sun Devils in the NBA
Over the years, the Arizona State basketball program has produced several players who have gone on to have successful careers in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Notable alumni include:
James Harden: A multiple-time All-Star and former NBA MVP.
Joe Caldwell: An NBA All-Star in the 1960s and 1970s.
Lafayette “Fat” Lever: A dynamic guard who played several seasons in the NBA.
Ike Austin: A center who had a decade-long NBA career.
Jeff Ayres: A forward/center who won an NBA championship with the San Antonio Spurs.
Marcus Bagley: A recent NBA draftee.
These alumni represent the talent and potential that the Arizona State program has fostered.
Conference Affiliations: From the Pac-12 to the Big 12
For a significant period, Arizona State was a member of the Pac-12 Conference, one of the premier athletic conferences in the United States. The Pac-12 boasts a rich history of basketball excellence and intense rivalries, most notably the Arizona–Arizona State rivalry. Over their time in the Pac-12, the Sun Devils competed against teams like Arizona, UCLA, USC, and Oregon.
However, the landscape of college athletics has been shifting, and in the 2024-25 season, Arizona State officially moved to the Big 12 Conference. This move places them in a new competitive environment alongside teams like Baylor, Kansas, Texas, and Houston. This transition presents both challenges and opportunities for the program.
NCAA Tournament History: Chasing March Madness Glory
The Arizona State Sun Devils have a history of participating in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, making 17 appearances. While they have yet to reach the Final Four or win a national championship, their three Elite Eight appearances (1961, 1963, 1975) stand as significant milestones.
In recent years, the Sun Devils have experienced both highs and lows in their tournament endeavors. Coach Bobby Hurley led the team to the second round of the NCAA Tournament in 2009 and 2014. The program continues to strive for consistent success in the national tournament.
Rivalries: The Battle for Arizona
The rivalry with the University of Arizona Wildcats is one of the most intense and closely followed in college basketball. The Arizona–Arizona State men’s basketball rivalry, often referred to as the “Duel in the Desert,” dates back to 1913. The two teams have met 250 times, with Arizona holding the historical edge. These matchups are highly anticipated by fans and often have significant implications for conference standings and bragging rights.
FAQs
Who is the head coach of Arizona State men’s basketball?
Bobby Hurley, a former Duke and NBA guard, has been the head coach since 2015. Despite a challenging 2024–25 season, ASU confirmed Hurley will return for his 11th year, making the upcoming season pivotal for his tenure.
What was Arizona State’s record in the 2024–25 season?
The Sun Devils finished with a 13–20 overall record and went 4–16 in their inaugural Big 12 season, placing 15th in the conference.
Why did ASU struggle this season?
Injuries plagued the team, with key freshmen Jayden Quaintance and Joson Sanon missing significant time. Additionally, leading scorer BJ Freeman was dismissed in February, contributing to over 50 player games missed due to injuries.
Who were the standout players for ASU?
Freshman center Jayden Quaintance averaged 9.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game before an ACL injury in March. Forward Basheer Jihad also made notable contributions, including a 22-point performance against Texas Tech.
What happened to Jayden Quaintance after the season?
Quaintance entered the transfer portal and recommitted to Kentucky, where he had initially pledged before choosing ASU. He is recovering from ACL surgery and is expected to return to action by September.
Where does ASU play its home games?
The Sun Devils play at Desert Financial Arena in Tempe, Arizona. The venue has a capacity of approximately 14,000 and hosts both men’s and women’s basketball games.
How can fans attend games or buy tickets?
Tickets can be purchased through the official Sun Devil Athletics website. Season ticket renewals and mini-plans are available, with special offers for students, alumni, and military personnel.
What is ASU’s bag policy for games?
ASU enforces a clear bag policy for all athletic events. Prohibited items must be returned to vehicles or discarded at the gate, as there are no provisions for checking in items at the stadium.
What are the expectations for the 2025–26 season?
With Bobby Hurley returning and a focus on integrating new talent, ASU aims to improve upon the previous season’s performance. The development of returning players and the health of key contributors will be crucial for success in the competitive Big 12 Conference.
To conclude
The 2024–25 season was a transitional period for Arizona State men’s basketball, marked by the challenges of entering the Big 12 Conference and dealing with significant injuries. Despite these hurdles, the program remains committed to growth and competitiveness. With Coach Bobby Hurley at the helm for another season, the focus will be on developing talent, maintaining player health, and striving for a stronger conference presence. Fans can look forward to a revitalized team ready to embrace the challenges of the upcoming season.
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