No. 1 Arizona Takes Down Arizona State in Tempe

By: Faith Wick

TEMPE- Ariz. — Arizona State hosted No. 1 University of Arizona Men’s Basketball. The final score was 87-74. As the UofA walks away with the win, they continue to defend their #1 ranked position. 

Desert Financial Arena was packed to the rim by Sun Devils fans and Wildcat fans. Throughout the entire game, you could feel the energy both fan bases were presenting. Arizona State head coach Bobby Hurley said, “The fans that did show up were very vocal. Unfortunately, there was a lot of red. This was not a home game. The crowd was very 50/50.”

UofA has been ranked #1 in Men’s College Basketball for seven consecutive weeks. Defeating teams like #3 Florida, #13 BYU, and holding a perfect 22-0 record for the season. Hurley said, “I am happy with how we were as competitive as we were. To me, it’s not how close the game was. We could not deal with their strengths, size, and their ability.” 

Hurley, in recent post-game interviews, has expressed strong emotion towards his team. “I’m falling. I can’t get through to the team,” said Hurley. 

Arizona State and the University of Arizona are two of the most heated rivals in college sports. This game brought attention from all over the United States. Stars like Giants running back Cam Skattebo, Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, and Clippers point guard James Harden all were spotted for attendance. 

Despite falling short, ASU fought hard, keeping the game close till the end. “We just weren’t able to stand up to the challenge. We had our chances, but didn’t shoot free throws well,” said Hurley.