Sat Feb 01 18:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Injury-Plagued ASU Faces Rivalry Rematch Against Resurgent Arizona Wildcats

**Tempe, AZ** – Arizona State University’s men’s basketball team faces a crucial test Saturday as they host their rivals, the University of Arizona Wildcats, in a highly anticipated matchup at Desert Financial Arena. The game, airing on CBS at 11 a.m., holds significant implications for both teams, but particularly for ASU, who are struggling to find their footing in their inaugural Big 12 season.

Currently 12-8 overall and 3-6 in conference play, the Sun Devils find themselves on the bubble for the NCAA tournament. Their challenging Big 12 schedule, considered the toughest in the nation, has taken its toll. Compounding the difficulty, ASU has battled significant injury issues. Leading scorer B.J. Freeman (thigh bruise) and key big man Jayden Quaintance (ankle injury) are questionable for Saturday’s game. Their absences forced other players, like Adam Miller and Shawn Phillips, to step up in a recent win over Colorado, but the team’s depth is severely tested.

Coach Bobby Hurley acknowledged the challenges, emphasizing the need to improve game closing and overcome the injuries that have limited his rotation to just six players at times. While players like Miller and Alston Mason have risen to the occasion, the team’s success hinges on the return of key players.

In contrast, the Arizona Wildcats (14-6, 8-1 Big 12) are enjoying a resurgence. After a shaky non-conference schedule, they’ve climbed to second place in the Big 12, racking up impressive wins against nationally ranked opponents. Their recent surge is largely attributed to the stellar play of Caleb Love, who has spearheaded a three-game winning streak with exceptional scoring, assists, and steals. Love, along with Jaden Bradley and K.J. Lewis, forms a potent offensive core for the Wildcats. Their average of 85 points per game in their last three contests highlights their improved offensive efficiency.

Saturday’s game promises a compelling clash, pitting an injury-riddled ASU team fighting for a tournament berth against a confident Arizona squad aiming to solidify their top-tier Big 12 position. The outcome will significantly impact both teams’ tournament hopes and rivalry bragging rights.

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