Sun Devils Prepare for Tough Matchup Against Gonzaga

TEMPE, Ariz. — The Arizona State Sun Devils men’s basketball team is off to a solid start in the 2025-26 season, boasting a 2-0 record. After winning their first two games, they faced Gonzaga on Friday night, a matchup that poses significant challenges to the Sun Devils.

Head coach Bobby Hurley leads the team as they navigate through a tough non-conference schedule. The Sun Devils recently suffered a competitive 77-65 loss to Gonzaga, which has traditionally been a testing ground for many teams.

Arizona State is ready to finish their four-game homestand at home against Georgia State, which currently has a record of 1-3. Key players for Georgia State include sophomore guard Jelani Hamilton and forward Joah Chappelle, both averaging double-digit scoring figures this season.

Following the Georgia State game, the Sun Devils will travel to Hawaii for a Thanksgiving tournament, where they will first face the Rainbow Warriors, who boast a 4-1 record that includes a victory over Utah Tech. Center Isaac Johnson is a standout player for Hawaii, averaging 14.8 points and 9.2 rebounds per game.

This trip to Hawaii is preparation for a significant match in the Maui Invitational, where they will face the Texas Longhorns on November 24. This matchup is notable as it marks Hurley’s first meeting with former Arizona coach Sean Miller since the 2020-21 season.

Awin over Texas could set up a meeting with Washington State, another former Pac-12 rival, bringing the potential for further competition. If successful, the Sun Devils would advance to the championship round of the tournament.

The season is primed for Arizona State, with expectations high for a team that has continually proven itself competitive under Hurley’s leadership. As they face off against former conference opponents, the Sun Devils aim to build on their early season momentum.