In a thrilling matchup between the No. 6 Arizona men’s basketball team and their in-state rivals, Arizona State University (ASU), the Wildcats emerged victorious with a commanding 85-67 win on Wednesday, February 28th, in Tempe, Arizona. This victory marked the completion of a season sweep for Arizona over ASU, further solidifying their dominance in the rivalry.
First Half Dominance: The Wildcats wasted no time asserting their dominance, converting on seven of their first 10 shots to take a commanding 18-6 lead less than seven minutes into the game. Led by Kylan Boswell’s early scoring prowess, Arizona showcased its offensive firepower.
By the midway point of the first half, Arizona had extended their lead to 16 points, overwhelming ASU with their efficient shooting and dominance in the paint. Despite ASU‘s efforts to chip away at the deficit, the Wildcats maintained control and headed into halftime with a 41-27 lead.
Second Half Surge: ASU came out of halftime with renewed energy, embarking on an 8-0 run to cut Arizona’s lead to single digits. However, the Wildcats quickly regained their composure and pushed their lead back to double digits.
The second half saw ASU mounting several comeback attempts, capitalizing on turnovers and fouls to narrow the gap. Despite the Sun Devils’ resilience, Arizona managed to maintain their lead, thanks to key contributions from Boswell, Caleb Love, and Oumar Ballo.
Late Game Heroics: As the game entered its final stretch, Arizona found their rhythm, embarking on a crucial 7-0 run to pull away from ASU and secure the victory. Boswell, Love, and Ballo led the charge, combining for a dominant performance on both ends of the court.
With the win, Arizona improved to 22-6 overall and 13-4 in the Pac-12 conference, further solidifying their position as one of the top teams in the nation. The Wildcats’ relentless determination and teamwork were on full display as they showcased their superiority over their rivals once again.
Looking Ahead: As the regular season winds down, Arizona will look to carry their momentum into the postseason, aiming for a deep run in the Pac-12 tournament and beyond. With their talent, depth, and resilience, the Wildcats are poised to make a significant impact on the national stage.
In conclusion, Arizona’s emphatic victory over ASU not only secured a season sweep but also served as a statement of their dominance in the rivalry. With their sights set on greater heights, the Wildcats continue to inspire fans with their electrifying performances and unwavering pursuit of excellence.