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Arizona State Sun Devils

Arizona State unable to overcome Jose Perez’s absence

The Arizona State Sun Devils suffered a 90-57 loss to the Utah Utes during Round One of the Pac-12 Tournament in Las Vegas. They end the season as 14-18 overall and 8-12 in conference play.

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Dreadful start

Similar to several games throughout this season, the Sun Devils started poorly.

They were outscored 47-22 during the first half and fell victim to a 16-4 run to end the half. Utah (19-13, 9-11) shot 70% from the field and was rolling on all cylinders immediately.

While Arizona State had an improved second half, it was not nearly enough to climb back into the game. Jose Perez’s absence has been evident and the Sun Devils’ offense could not get back on track against the Utes.

Frankie Collins led ASU with 20 points, followed by Kamari Lands with 11 points.

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Utah’s Cole Bejema led his team in scoring with 22, followed by Deivon Smith who finished with 15 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists.

 

Key Stats

ASU: Field goals: 22-70 (31%), 3 Pointers: 3-19 (16%), Free throws: 10-17 (59%)

Utah: Field goals: 32-54 (59%), 3 Pointers: 12-26 (67%), Free throws: 14-21 (67%)

 

ASU: 36 total rebounds, 11 turnovers, 4 fast break points

Utah: 42 total rebounds, 18 turnovers, 22 fast break points

 

What’s Next for Arizona State

This officially marks the end of Sun Devils basketball in the Pac-12 conference.

Since their impressive 10-5 start to the season, the team has gone just 4-13. Shooting struggles and lack of consistency have highlighted ASU’s season.

Fans have been unhappy with head coach Bobby Hurley, who has yet to sign an extension with the team. Hurley’s future with Arizona State remains unclear.

Arizona Wildcats crowned as Pac-12 Regular Season Champions

Headed into a new conference after 45 years in the Pac-12, the Sun Devils will look to change the trajectory of their program in the Big 12.

 

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Saleh Awwad is a writer/reporter covering the Arizona State Sun Devils, Phoenix High School Sports, and more for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on X via @SalehAwwad_

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