MBB Faces Arizona State in First Road Match

Gonzaga University’s men’s basketball team is set to face Arizona State University in their first road match of the season. This highly anticipated game will take place on Friday, November 14, at 8 p.m. Pacific Time at Desert Financial Arena in Tempe, Arizona.

Gonzaga Bulldogs’ Impressive Start

Gonzaga enters this contest with a strong record of 3-0. They recently achieved a commanding 90-63 victory against No. 23 Creighton. Graham Ike was a standout performer, contributing 20 points and 10 rebounds. Braden Huff supported the effort with 14 points, while Mario Saint-Supery added 13 points off the bench.

Following their win, Gonzaga has climbed to the No. 2 position in both KenPom’s rankings and the ESPN BPI rating. The team’s defensive capabilities rank fifth nationally, while their offense sits at ninth.

Graham Ike’s Milestone

In the match against Creighton, Graham Ike crossed the 2,000-point threshold in his career, currently standing at 2,011 points. He ranks second among active NCAA Division I scorers, closely trailing Indiana’s Tucker DeVries. Additionally, Ike’s 927 rebounds make him second among active players. He was recognized earlier this season as a preseason All-American and is noted on several prestigious player watch lists.

Notably, Ike has recorded a double-double in each of Gonzaga’s first three games this season.

Scouting Arizona State Sun Devils

Arizona State, with a current record of 2-0, recently defeated Utah Tech with a score of 81-66. Massamba Diop led the scoring with 18 points, while Santiago Trouet contributed 13 points and 10 rebounds. Transfer Moe Odum had a notable performance as well, scoring 14 points alongside six assists and six rebounds.

The Sun Devils began their season with an 81-64 victory over Southern Utah on November 4. Despite their potential, Arizona State was predicted to finish last in the Big 12 preseason poll.

• Key Players:
  • Massamba Diop – 18 points in the latest game
  • Santiago Trouet – 13 points and 10 rebounds
  • Moe Odum – 14 points, 6 assists, 6 rebounds

Historical Context

This matchup marks only the second meeting between Gonzaga and Arizona State. The previous encounter ended in favor of Gonzaga, with a score of 88-80 in Spokane. Braden Huff led Gonzaga in that game scoring 21 points, while Adam Miller added eight for the Sun Devils.

Looking Ahead

After facing Arizona State, Gonzaga will host Southern Utah at the McCarthey Athletic Center on Monday at 6 p.m. This marks yet another opportunity for the Bulldogs to showcase their talent early in the season.

Overall, Gonzaga’s blend of experience and talent will be crucial as they navigate through tough early-season matchups. With standout players like Graham Ike and a robust roster, expectations for the season are high as they continue their pursuit of success.