Opinion
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Can the Sun Devils Blaze Past the Utes at Jon M. Huntsman Center?

As the Arizona State Sun Devils prepare to face off against the Utah Utes in an anticipated showdown at Jon M. Huntsman Center, fans are eager to see if their team can bounce back from a string of challenging games. The upcoming match on February 10th promises to be a pivotal moment for ASU as they seek redemption on the court.


Feb 18, 2023; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils guard DJ Horne (0) shoots against the Utah Utes during the second half at Desert Financial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

The Sun Devils have had a rollercoaster season, with their most recent game against Northwestern Wildcats ending in a disappointing 46-65 loss on December 21st. Despite showing promise in the second half by scoring 33 points, it wasn't enough to overcome their first-half deficit where they only managed 13 points. Their field goal percentage stood at a concerning 31 percent and three-point shooting was even more alarming at just 17 percent.


However, not all is bleak for ASU fans. In an earlier game against San Diego Toreros on December 10th, they showcased what they're capable of with an impressive offensive performance that led them to score 84 points. Their field goal percentage was much improved at 48 percent and three-point shots were sinking with a success rate of 41 percent.


Feb 18, 2023; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils guard Devan Cambridge (35) goes to the net against Utah Utes guard Marco Anthony (10) during the second half at Desert Financial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Defense has been another area where ASU has shown inconsistency. Against TCU Horned Frogs on December 17th, they allowed an overwhelming number of points in paint (44) and fast-break points (21), which contributed significantly to their loss of 59-79.


Looking ahead, it's clear that if ASU wants to secure victory against Utah Utes, they need to tighten up their defense and find more consistency in shooting from beyond the arc as well as inside it. The team's ability to rebound from adversity will be tested once again but there is potential for them to turn things around based on past performances.


Feb 18, 2023; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils guard Devan Cambridge (35) controls the ball against the Utah Utes during the second half at Desert Financial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

ASU must also focus on reducing turnovers which have plagued them throughout these games; maintaining possession will be crucial against a disciplined Utah squad.


The scheduled game is set for February 10th at Jon M. Huntsman Center located in Salt Lake City, UT with tip-off slated for what corresponds locally as noon MST time zone difference considered). Fans won't want miss this clash which will be broadcasted live ESPN Networks – it could very well mark turning point season Arizona State Sun Devils' campaign toward success or further struggle within competitive landscape college basketball.

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