The college basketball season is full of surprises. But few could have predicted the dramatic turn of events when Arizona State took on No. 6 Iowa State on Saturday. The Sun Devils, led by head coach Bobby Hurley, started strong but ultimately fell 86-65, making it a tough end to the regular season.
The game began with both teams trading baskets, showcasing their offensive prowess. The first half was a nail-biter, with seven ties and eight lead changes. Arizona State capitalized on six Iowa State turnovers, taking a four-point lead into the break. However, the second half was a different story. The Cyclones, fueled by a 10-0 run after a technical foul on Hurley, overwhelmed the Sun Devils with a 86-65 victory.
Despite a valiant effort, ASU couldn't sustain their momentum. The Cyclones, who finished the regular season with 25+ wins for just the second time in program history, dominated the second half. Milan Momcilovic and Isaiah Moseley each scored 16 points for the Cyclones, while the Sun Devils struggled to find their rhythm.
The loss was a hard pill to swallow for coach Hurley, who has had a tumultuous season. Hurley, known for his fiery demeanor, was ejected for a technical foul in the second half, and his displeasure with the officiating was evident. Post-game, Hurley didn't hold back, calling the officiating 'a joke'.
Despite the loss, there are positives to take away for both teams. Iowa State's dominant performance solidifies their ranking and sets them up well for the Big 12 tournament. Meanwhile, Arizona State, with a 16-15 record, will look to regroup and make a run in the post-season.
Bobby Hurley, in his 11th year at ASU, has had a challenging season with a 16-15 record. This loss could be his final regular-season game under contract, adding to the pressure. The Sun Devils will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for the Big 12 tournament.
