Opinion
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Utah Utes Set to Confront Arizona State Sun Devils in Tempe Showdown

As the Utah Utes prepare to face off against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Desert Financial Arena, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying encounter. The Utes, coming off a string of impressive performances, are poised to continue their momentum into this upcoming game scheduled for January 4th.


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

The recent statistics speak volumes about the Utes' capabilities. In their last game on December 31st against the Washington Huskies, they emerged victorious with a score of 95-90. This high-scoring affair showcased Utah's offensive prowess as they shot an impressive 53 percent from the field and an even more remarkable 46 percent from beyond the arc. Their ability to control the paint was evident as well, scoring 48 points in that area.


Defensively, UTAH has shown they can hold their ground too. Against Bellarmine Knights on December 21st, they forced a staggering 23 turnovers and converted those into 28 points. The defensive pressure applied by Utah resulted in a comfortable win with an end score of 85-43.


Feb 18, 2023; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils guard Devan Cambridge (35) and Utah Utes guard Lazar Stefanovic (20) go after a loose ball during the second half at Desert Financial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

The Sun Devils should not be underestimated though; playing at home provides them with a certain edge that could prove challenging for any visiting team. However, given that Utah has demonstrated both resilience and adaptability in past games – turning around second-half performances to secure wins – it's clear they have what it takes to overcome such challenges.


One potential area of concern for Utah might be their free throw percentage which dipped as low as 46 percent against Washington Huskies; however, if previous games are anything to go by, this team knows how to adjust and improve where necessary.


Feb 18, 2023; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils guard Devan Cambridge (35) and Arizona State Sun Devils forward Warren Washington (22) defend against Utah Utes guard Marco Anthony (10) during the first half at Desert Financial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

With all eyes on them come January 4th at Desert Financial Arena at precisely nine o'clock in the evening Mountain Time Zone (MT), fans can expect another thrilling performance from this formidable squad. Those unable or unwilling to brave Tempe can catch all the action live on ESPN2 channel number two hundred nine where every pass will be broadcasted nationally across screens big and small alike.

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