TEMPE — It was a state rivalry showdown on Saturday afternoon as Arizona State men’s basketball faced Arizona in the Territorial Cup rivalry game, drawing appearances from some of ASU’s most notable faces.
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— Sun Devil Football (@ASUFootball) January 31, 2026
Welcome home, Sun Devils 😈 pic.twitter.com/oTwQiWeXoo
— Arizona State Sun Devils (@TheSunDevils) January 31, 2026
NBA All-Star James Harden, ASU football standouts Jordyn Tyson and Cam Skattebo, and head football coach Kenny Dillingham were all in attendance at Desert Financial Arena to cheer on the Sun Devils. Their presence highlighted the unity and momentum across ASU athletics, bridging past and present.
Jan 7, 2026; New York, New York, USA; LA Clippers guard James Harden (1) dribbles up court against the New York Knicks during the first quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Harden, one of the most accomplished alumni in school history, sat courtside alongside Tyson, who is projected to be drafted in the first round of the NFL Draft. Skattebo and Tyson reunited after once being teammates on the field, sharing a hug with Dillingham. The trio helped reshape the football program two years ago, and the reunion was a throwback to that era.
Rivalry games already carry emotional stakes, and both programs were not just playing for a win but to assert dominance as the best school in the state.
Nov 28, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (0) with head coach Kenny Dillingham against the Arizona Wildcats during the 99th Territorial Cup at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
On the court, the game was competitive, but the Sun Devils ultimately fell to the Wildcats, 87-74. Despite the loss, the appearances of Harden, Tyson, Skattebo and Dillingham reinforced that ASU’s athletic programs remain united and connected across sports.
With alumni and current stars returning for a game of this magnitude, it underscored how deeply these rivalries run, long after athletes leave Arizona State.
Nov 30, 2024; Tucson, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils running back Cam Skattebo (4) holds the Territorial Cup alongside Arizona State Sun Devils head coach Kenny Dillingham at the end of the game against the Arizona Wildcats at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aryanna Frank-Imagn Images
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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