Arizona State Aims for Consistency Amid Big 12 Challenges
The Arizona State Sun Devils are looking to capitalize on a recent bounce-back effort as they travel to Boulder, Colo., to face the struggling Colorado Buffaloes. Arizona State, currently 11-8 overall and 2-6 in Big 12 play, recently ended a four-game conference losing streak and seeks to keep that momentum alive.
In their first meeting on Jan. 4, the Sun Devils dominated Colorado with an 81-61 victory in Tempe. While Arizona State hit a midseason skid afterward, recent performances, including a win over then-No. 23 West Virginia and a hard-fought battle against No. 3 Iowa State, have shown signs of improvement.
Coach Bobby Hurley emphasized the need for wins over moral victories following Saturday’s 76-61 loss to Iowa State. “We’re starting to figure some things out, but ultimately you’ve got to win,” Hurley said.

Balanced Offense Key for Sun Devils
Arizona State’s offense is driven by a balanced approach, with five players averaging double figures. BJ Freeman leads the team with 13 points per game, followed by Joson Sanon (12.5), Basheer Jihad (12.4), Alston Mason (11.3), and Jayden Quaintance (10.3). Quaintance also leads the team in rebounding at 8.5 boards per game but is battling an injury that limited his impact against Iowa State.
The Sun Devils’ ability to maintain their offensive rhythm will be crucial as they aim to secure their second conference win in three games.
Colorado’s Season Hits New Lows
The Buffaloes, at 9-10 overall and winless in eight Big 12 games, are experiencing their worst conference start since the 1992-93 season when they were part of the Big 8. With three ranked opponents looming over their next seven games, the road ahead doesn’t get easier.
Coach Tad Boyle, however, remains focused on long-term development. “It doesn’t matter if you’re winning or losing,” Boyle said. “Your challenge is the same. You want your team to improve. Hopefully day-to-day, week-to-week, and month-to-month.”
The Buffaloes’ roster skews young, with only four seniors and two juniors. Julian Hammond III (13.9 points per game) and Andrej Jakimovski (10.9) are the team’s only double-digit scorers. Seniors Elijah Malone (9.2) and Trevor Baskin (8.7) provide additional contributions but need to step up for Colorado to snap its losing streak.
What to Watch
Arizona State will aim to exploit Colorado’s inexperience and lack of depth as they push to secure a much-needed road win. For the Buffaloes, the game offers another opportunity to develop their young core and potentially turn their season around.