Arizona State is back in the NCAA tournament for the first time since 2009. The Sun Devils earned a No. 10 seed after going 21-11 through the Pac 12. The team will face the Texas Longhorns who looked impressive during Big 12 play despite a few upset losses. The Longhorns played well enough for a No.7 seed, but are more evenly matched with Arizona State which should make this matchup one to watch.
The Longhorns have completed an impressive turnaround after disastrous season last year. Texas failed to make the tournament after going 16-18 in the regular season. They lost in the first round of the College Basketball Invitational. However, Texas needs to step it up after a tough finish to the season where they lost their last five of eight games. Arizona State has an identical record in their last eight games, but is coming off three straight losses. Can either team turn it around?
The Sun Devils will rely heavily on top point guard Jahii Carson. He leads the team with 18.6 points per game and 4.5 rebounds. The Longhorns will make the point guard their top priority. If they can shut down Carson, there is a chance at winning. Texas' size is also going to spell trouble. Forward Jonathan Holmes is putting up 13 points and 7.2 rebounds per game while center Cameron Ridley controls the inside.
Statistic wise, the Sun Devils and Longhorns are almost identical. Both teams have shown real signs of promise this season, while failing to compete other times. They are each allowing opponents to score around 70 points per game, while averaging 75 points offensively. While a No. 10 and No. 7 are drastically different, Arizona State and Texas are so evenly matched, the game becomes one of the more enticing first-round showdowns.
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