The Arizona State men’s basketball team has unveiled its full non-conference schedule for the upcoming 2024-25 season, and it promises to be an exciting lineup of matchups. Head coach Bobby Hurley’s squad will face off against some tough competition before diving into their inaugural Big 12 schedule.
One of the highlights of the non-conference schedule is a showdown with perennial powerhouse Gonzaga. The Sun Devils will travel to Spokane to take on Mark Few’s Bulldogs, who finished last season ranked No. 15 in the country. This game will mark the beginning of a home-and-home series between the two teams, providing fans with an early-season treat.
In addition to Gonzaga, ASU will also square off against Florida and either USC or Saint Mary’s. These matchups will test the Sun Devils against top-tier competition and help prepare them for the challenges of conference play. Facing off against NCAA Tournament teams like Gonzaga, GCU, New Mexico, Saint Mary’s, and Florida will provide valuable experience for the team as they look to make a statement this season.
One particularly intriguing matchup on the schedule is a game against Grand Canyon at Footprint Center on Nov. 14 as part of the Hall of Fame Series. This game will mark the first meeting between ASU and Bryce Drew’s Antelopes since the 2021-22 season, adding an extra layer of excitement to the matchup.
The Sun Devils will kick off their season with an exhibition game for charity against Duke at Cameron Indoor Stadium on Oct. 27, benefiting Duke Children’s Hospital. This game will not only provide a great opportunity for a good cause but also give ASU a chance to test themselves against a storied program like Duke.
As the season progresses, ASU will face a diverse range of opponents, including San Diego, New Mexico, and UMass. The team will also participate in the Acrisure Classic in Palm Springs, where they will take on New Mexico on Thanksgiving night. This tournament will provide the Sun Devils with another chance to showcase their talent against quality competition.
The Sun Devils‘ roster features a mix of returning players and new faces, with guard Adam Miller and center Shawn Phillips Jr. leading the way. The team has added several experienced transfers, including Austin Nunez, Basheer Jihad, Alston Mason, Brandon Gardner, and BJ Freeman, who will bring depth and talent to the squad. Additionally, the freshman class is headlined by 5-star forward Jayden Quaintance, along with four-star wings Joson Sanon and Amier Eli, adding even more excitement to the team’s lineup.
Overall, the Arizona State men’s basketball non-conference schedule for the 2024-25 season is packed with intriguing matchups and opportunities for the team to prove themselves against top competition. With a mix of experienced veterans and talented newcomers, the Sun Devils are poised to make some noise this season and establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in college basketball. Fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead as ASU takes on some of the best teams in the country.