Arizona State Basketball Faces Uncertain Future Amid Ongoing Struggles

TEMPE, Ariz. — The Arizona State men’s basketball team is facing a challenging inaugural season in the Big 12 Conference as they prepare to host No. 5 Houston on Tuesday night. With a disappointing record of 12-13 and a conference mark of 3-11, the Sun Devils have struggled to maintain the momentum from a promising nonconference schedule.

Despite early wins over teams such as New Mexico and Saint Mary’s, both hovering near the Top 25, the Sun Devils have been unable to replicate their success in conference play. ASU was competitive in many games, with eight of their eleven conference losses being decided in the final minutes. This includes a heartbreaking overtime loss to Baylor and a double overtime setback against Texas Tech.

Injuries to key freshman players Jayden Quaintance and Joson Sanon have severely impacted ASU’s ability to compete effectively. Coach Bobby Hurley has had to work with a limited roster, and any absence of players due to fouls or ejections can significantly hinder the team’s chances of success. Hurley noted, “Going in, our margin for error is not great right now,” acknowledging the team’s precarious position.

The Sun Devils have also faced disciplinary issues, with several players being ejected for unsportsmanlike conduct in critical moments. Veteran leaders Adam Miller and B.J. Freeman have particularly struggled to maintain composure, resulting in their early exits during games. “That’s on us for not listening to Coach and not taking it serious,” Freeman said regarding the team’s lack of discipline.

The implications of these issues are dire as ASU faces a challenging slate ahead, including a matchup against a Houston team that boasts the longest road winning streak in the country and recently defeated Arizona. Hurley understands that a postseason berth through the NCAA Tournament is slipping away and now rests on winning the Big 12 Tournament.

A disappointing season follows a promising offseason, which had promised great potential with the addition of high-profile recruits. However, injuries and inconsistent performance have thwarted the team’s progress. ASU has experienced a similar pattern in previous seasons, notably in the 2020-21 season, where injuries undermined the team’s success.

Looking ahead, ASU’s chances of recovering this season appear slim unless significant improvements are made. With competitive play as the standard in the Big 12, the adjustments needed to change the trajectory of their season will demand both physical and mental resilience from the Sun Devils.

As the team continues to navigate its growing pains, fans remain hopeful that the Sun Devils can find their footing and ultimately push for a chance at postseason play.