Arizona State Sun Devils Basketball: A Legacy of Talent and Competition

The Arizona State Sun Devils men's basketball team represents Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona, and boasts a storied history marked by talented athletes, memorable moments, and fierce rivalries. From their early days to their current standing in the Pac-12 Conference, the Sun Devils have consistently showcased their competitiveness on the court.

A History of Tournament Appearances and Conference Championships

The Arizona State Sun Devils have made 17 appearances in the NCAA Tournament, demonstrating their ability to compete at the national level. These appearances include three trips to the Elite Eight in 1961, 1963, and 1975, showcasing the program's potential to make deep runs in the tournament. In addition to their NCAA Tournament success, the Sun Devils have won eight conference championships, with four titles in the WAC and four in the Border Conference, highlighting their dominance in their respective conferences. The team has also finished in the final AP rankings seven times, with their highest national ranking being No. 3 under Bobby Hurley during the 2017-18 season, indicating their status as a top program in the nation.

Coaching Influence and Recent Success

Currently, the Sun Devils are led by head coach Bobby Hurley, who is in his eighth season with the program. Hurley's predecessor, Herb Sendek, is credited with revitalizing the "basketball atmosphere" and excitement surrounding Arizona State basketball. Sendek led the Sun Devils to three consecutive 20-win seasons, the 2009 Pac-10 Conference Tournament finals, and the second round of the 2009 and 2014 NCAA Tournaments. Hurley has continued this tradition of success, guiding the Sun Devils to the NCAA Tournaments in 2018, 2019, and 2023.

In the 2020 Pac-12 Conference Men's Basketball Tournament, the Sun Devils earned a 3-seed and a first-round bye. However, the tournament was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which also led to the cancellation of the 2020 NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament.

Rivalry with the University of Arizona

The rivalry between the Arizona State Sun Devils and the University of Arizona Wildcats dates back to 1913, when the University of Arizona in Tucson played the Normal School of Arizona in Tempe, which later became Arizona State University. Since Arizona State gained university status on December 5, 1958, Arizona leads the series 83-58.

Before both schools were affiliated with a conference from 1913 to 1930, Arizona led the series 24-4. During the Border Conference years from 1931 to 1961, Arizona led 56-31. Upon joining the WAC conference from 1961 to 1978, Arizona State led that period 22-14. Since both schools joined the Pac-10 conference in the 1978-79 season, and including the Pac-12, Arizona has led ASU 67-30. During the Lute Olson era as head coach from 1983-84 until the 2006-2007 season, Arizona led ASU 43-6.

Beginning in 1928, the rivalry was scheduled on its "traditional" date. Pop McKale, UA's coach and namesake of the present UA stadium, began challenging Arizona for their perennial spot on top of the conference standings. The Arizona-Arizona State game has been played in four locations: Los Angeles, CA, Las Vegas, NV, Tempe, AZ, and Tucson, AZ. Arizona leads the series in all three venues: Tempe, 67-55; in Tucson, 93-31: in Las Vegas, 1-0 and for games contested in Los Angeles, the series is tied at 1-1.

Arizona won the last game, played on March 4, 2025, 113-100. The Arizona-Arizona State rivalry has been known for streaks. In the first major streak of the series, Arizona won 9 straight over the Sun Devils from 1913 to 1926. Arizona has the longest winning streak of the series, 17 games, from 1945 to 1952. The streak was broken by Arizona State in 1952. Arizona State's longest streak was 15 games from 1958 to 1965.

Notable Players in Arizona State Basketball History

The Arizona State Sun Devils basketball program has been home to many talented athletes who have left a lasting impression on the college basketball world. These outstanding players have not only put up impressive stats but have also become integral members of their respective Sun Devils teams.

James Harden

James Harden, a prolific scorer during his time at ASU, earned first-team All-Pac-10 honors and was named the conference's Player of the Year in 2009. Harden played two seasons for the Sun Devils before entering the NBA, where he has become one of the league's most recognizable and accomplished players.

Read also: Crafting Your NCAA Profile

Byron Scott

Byron Scott was another outstanding guard for the Sun Devils, earning second-team All-American honors in 1983 while leading his team to three consecutive NCAA tournament appearances. Scott's leadership and scoring ability made him a key player for the Sun Devils during his time at ASU.

Fat Lever

Fat Lever was an all-around player who obtained two first-team All-Pac-10 selections during his tenure with ASU. Lever's versatility and ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game made him a valuable asset to the Sun Devils.

These athletes serve as examples of what it takes to be considered among the best in Arizona State Sun Devils basketball. Their accomplishments have enriched Arizona basketball history, leaving an impact that will be noted by current and future fans. They have contributed not just to the success of their team but also to the overall prestige and reputation of Arizona basketball itself.

Postseason Tournament History

NCAA Tournament Appearances

The Sun Devils have appeared in the NCAA tournament 17 times. Their combined record is 14-17.

NIT Appearances

Arizona State has appeared in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) 13 times.

NAIA Tournament Appearances

Arizona State appeared in the NAIA Division I men's basketball tournament twice.

National Commissioners Invitational Tournament

Arizona State appeared in the National Commissioners Invitational Tournament once.

College Basketball Crown

Arizona State has appeared in the College Basketball Crown once.

All-Time Series Records vs. Pac-12 Opponents

Arizona State has the following all-time series records vs. Pac-12 opponents. The Sun Devils lead three series with conference opponents. (Note: the listed all-time series records include any non-conference matchups).

tags: #NCAA #basketball #Arizona #State #history