Recap
3 min read

Did Arizona State Sun Devils Outshine Cincinnati Bearcats at Desert Financial Arena?

First Half


The Arizona State Sun Devils faced off against the Cincinnati Bearcats at Desert Financial Arena, securing a win with a final score of 82-68. This victory improved the Sun Devils' record to 1-0, while the Bearcats fell to 0-1. The first half saw both teams battling fiercely, with the Sun Devils taking an early lead by scoring 37 points compared to Cincy's 33.


Jan 24, 2026; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Cincinnati Bearcats guard Day Day Thomas (1) drives to the basket past Arizona State Sun Devils guard Maurice Odum in the first half at Desert Financial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Maurice Odum was instrumental in this period, contributing significantly with his scoring ability and defensive prowess. His performance set the tone for the rest of the game as he managed to keep up pressure on both ends of the court.


Second Half


In the second half, Arizona State extended their lead by adding another 45 points. The team's efficiency was evident as they shot an impressive field goal percentage of 47 percent overall. Massamba Diop's presence in defense was notable; he recorded several blocks that thwarted Cincy's attempts to close in on their lead.


Jan 24, 2026; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Cincinnati Bearcats guard Jalen Celestine (32) moves the ball against Arizona State Sun Devils guard Noah Meeusen (15) in the first half at Desert Financial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Bearcats struggled despite their efforts and managed only a slight increase in their scoring output from the first half, adding just two more points than before for a total of 35 in this period.


Post-game Analysis


The post-game report Arizona State Sun Devils highlighted key performances from players like Maurice Odum and Massamba Diop who were pivotal throughout both halves. Coach's strategy seemed effective as reflected by his post-game reaction which emphasized teamwork and execution on critical plays.


Jan 24, 2026; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils forward Allen Mukeba (23) celebrates with guard Maurice Odum (5) against the Cincinnati Bearcats in the first half at Desert Financial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

On Cincy's side, despite having moments where they closed gaps quickly through fast breaks totaling up to 16 points during transitions, it wasn't enough against Sparky's relentless offense led by Odum’s dynamic playmaking abilities paired alongside Anthony Johnson’s consistent shooting accuracy from beyond-the-arc hitting nearly half his attempts successfully (46 percent).


As part of our Arizona State Sun Devils vs Cincinnati Bearcats recap: The game concluded with ASU maintaining control over most aspects including rebounds (31) compared against Cincy’s slightly higher count but less impactful due largely thanks again due primarily towards defensive stops made possible via strategic positioning around paint areas limiting opponent chances effectively throughout entire matchup duration itself!


Looking ahead: Fans can catch Sparky next when they travel away facing UCF Knights scheduled January twenty-seventh at Addition Financial Arena located Orlando Florida starting seven PM Eastern Standard Time broadcast live via ESPN+. Don't miss out sharing insights about these exciting developments!

Rate the article

Related stories

Sun Devils' Paint Power Falls Short Against Mountaineers' Precision Shooting
Recap

Sun Devils' Paint Power Falls Short Against Mountaineers' Precision Shooting

2 min read
Arizona State Sun Devils Outshined by Houston Cougars in Fertitta Center Showdown
Recap

Arizona State Sun Devils Outshined by Houston Cougars in Fertitta Center Showdown

3 min read
Arizona State Sun Devils Outshine Arizona Wildcats in First Half, Fall Short at McKale Center
Recap

Arizona State Sun Devils Outshine Arizona Wildcats in First Half, Fall Short at McKale Center

3 min read
Did Arizona State Sun Devils' Defense Dominate Kansas State Wildcats at Desert Financial Arena?
Recap

Did Arizona State Sun Devils' Defense Dominate Kansas State Wildcats at Desert Financial Arena?

3 min read