Saint Mary’s Gaels vs Arizona State Sun Devils Picks and Predictions November 30th 2024

Saint Mary’s, closing in on school history, meets Arizona State in tournament final

Undefeated Saint Mary’s is poised to extend its best season start in 12 years as they take on Arizona State in the championship game of the Acrisure Invitational. The showdown, set for Friday in Palm Desert, California, features two teams with contrasting paths to the final, promising an intense battle for the title.

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Saint Mary’s Dominates USC to Stay Perfect

The Gaels (7-0) delivered a statement victory on Thursday, routing Southern California 71-36 in a defensive clinic. This marked their first-ever win against the Trojans and extended their winning streak to seven games, their best start since the 2013-14 season, when they opened with nine straight wins.

Jordan Ross led the charge for Saint Mary’s, scoring 15 points on an efficient 6-of-9 shooting. His eight-point burst during a 12-2 run in the second half helped the Gaels pull away decisively.

“Stuff is clicking at the right time,” said Ross. “We are getting better every game, which is how you want it. You don’t want to peak in November or December.”

Paulius Murauskas and Augustas Marciulionis added 11 points each as the Gaels showcased their depth and versatility. Saint Mary’s defense was suffocating, holding USC to a dismal 17.4% shooting in the second half, including 0-for-12 from beyond the arc.

“Obviously, they were off, but we had something to do with it,” said Saint Mary’s coach Randy Bennett, acknowledging his team’s defensive prowess.

Arizona State Survives Thriller Against New Mexico

In stark contrast, Arizona State (6-1) faced a grueling semifinal against New Mexico, edging out an 85-82 victory in what coach Bobby Hurley described as “an NCAA Tournament game.”

The Sun Devils overcame a 21-1 Lobos run that spanned halftime and erased their early lead. Basheer Jihad, a transfer from Ball State, was instrumental in the comeback, scoring 17 of his 20 points in the second half. Alston Mason, another key transfer, sealed the win with clutch free throws in the final seconds.

“We showed resilience tonight,” Hurley said. “Games like these prepare us for March.”

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Championship Showdown: What to Expect

The final promises a clash of styles. Saint Mary’s relies on disciplined defense and efficient offense, while Arizona State thrives on grit and late-game heroics. Key matchups to watch include Jordan Ross versus Arizona State’s backcourt and how the Sun Devils’ dynamic scorers handle the Gaels’ stifling defense.

Saint Mary’s aims to equal its record of nine consecutive wins to start a season, while Arizona State looks to bolster its résumé with a high-profile victory. Both teams will treat this as a valuable test for the intense competition ahead in conference play and beyond.

Tournament Recap: Consolation Game Set

In the consolation game, USC (5-2) will face New Mexico (5-2), both teams eager to bounce back after tough losses. USC will look to improve its offensive efficiency, while the Lobos aim to recapture the form that fueled their explosive 21-1 run.

Key Players to Watch in the Final

• Jordan Ross (Saint Mary’s): A rising star who has been instrumental in the Gaels’ success.
• Basheer Jihad (Arizona State): A versatile forward capable of dominating the paint and midrange.
• Paulius Murauskas (Saint Mary’s): Provides depth and scoring consistency.
• Alston Mason (Arizona State): Clutch performer in tight games.

Conclusion: A Battle for Momentum

For Saint Mary’s, Friday’s final represents a chance to cement its status as a rising powerhouse, while Arizona State seeks to prove its mettle against one of the most consistent teams in college basketball. With both teams in form and high stakes on the line, the championship game is set to deliver an unforgettable clash.