Arizona State University (ASU) truly showcased its prowess in college basketball with an impressive 87-76 triumph over Grand Canyon University (GCU) on Thursday night at the Footprint Center. The game wasn’t just another match on the schedule—it was an electrifying showdown that felt more like a high-stakes rivalry, potentially paving the way for an annual tradition in the Hall of Fame Series Phoenix.
A Night to Remember
Picture this: a packed arena with 13,705 fans roaring with energy, all gathered at a "neutral site" that amplified the intensity of the game. The atmosphere was so charged that it rivaled the excitement of March Madness, making it clear that this wasn't just any regular season game. Both teams brought their A-game, but it was the Sun Devils who ultimately emerged victorious, solidifying their position as a formidable force in college basketball.
Dominance of the Sun Devils
ASU's performance this season has been nothing short of stellar, improving their record to 3-1. In contrast, GCU has struggled against the Sun Devils, holding a 0-3 record over the past five seasons against this high-caliber team. The Lopes, on the other hand, have a more balanced season at 2-1, but tonight wasn’t their night.
Standout Performances
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Joson Sanon (ASU): The freshman sensation led the Sun Devils with a remarkable 21 points off the bench. Sanon was on fire from beyond the arc, sinking 5 of 7 three-pointers, including 4 of 5 in the first half. His sharpshooting was a key factor in ASU’s offensive strategy.
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Basheer Jihad (ASU): Adding to the scoreboard, Jihad contributed 18 points. His versatility on the court—scoring, rebounding, and assisting—made him a vital asset for the Sun Devils.
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Tyon Grant-Foster (GCU): Despite GCU’s loss, Grant-Foster put up 19 points. It was his first game back since GCU’s NCAA Tournament Round of 32 exit against Alabama, and he showed glimpses of his potential, particularly on defense.
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Jakobe Coles (GCU): Coles, averaging 21 points and 12 rebounds in his first two games, scored 17 points despite battling illness. Unfortunately, he had to leave the game early due to fouls, which significantly impacted GCU’s performance.
The Game Unfolds
From the tip-off, ASU established dominance with their long-range shooting. GCU struggled to defend ASU's perimeter threats, particularly Sanon, whose impeccable shooting made it tough for the Lopes to keep up. Despite Grant-Foster finding his rhythm later in the first half, GCU couldn't sustain any momentum against ASU’s relentless offense.
Key Moments
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First Half Surge: ASU made a significant 17-5 run towards the end of the first half, pushing their lead to 53-45. This run was pivotal in setting the tone for the rest of the game, ensuring that GCU never truly caught up.
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GCU's Struggles: Missing their 6-foot-10 center Duke Brennan, who was sidelined with a shoulder injury from an exhibition, was a blow for GCU. This absence was felt throughout the game, limiting their ability to defend against ASU’s inside game.
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Clutch Shooting: In the final three minutes of the half, Sanon scored eight points, including two crucial three-pointers, helping ASU secure a narrow 41-40 lead at halftime.
Coaching Insights
Both coaches were vocal about the electric atmosphere, comparing it to the intensity of the NCAA Tournament.
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Bryce Drew (GCU): "That environment is better than an NCAA Tournament game," Drew remarked. "It was fun to coach. Fun to play in. Hopefully, next time we'll have a full roster."
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Bobby Hurley (ASU): Hurley echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the rise of GCU as a legitimate threat in college basketball. "I liked it a few years ago when we did a home-and-home. They're on the rise. They are. They've arrived. They're a legitimate threat in college basketball."
Strategic Plays and Turnovers
ASU’s strategy focused heavily on three-point shooting, making 11 of their 25 attempts and shooting an overall 53% from the field. This high-efficiency shooting kept GCU on their toes and allowed ASU to maintain control of the game.
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Inside Dominance: ASU didn’t just rely on their perimeter shots. They effectively exploited the inside game with players like Shawn Phillips Jr. (7-footer) and Jihad, who scored effortlessly in the paint. When GCU tried to clog the lane, Sanon remained unfazed, continuing to hit from beyond the arc.
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GCU’s Defensive Challenges: GCU struggled to defend ASU’s length and perimeter threats. Without Brennan and with Coles limited by fouls and illness, their defense couldn’t contain ASU’s shooters. Grant-Foster attempted to ignite the defense, but with GCU committing 11 turnovers and ASU turning over the ball only five times, ASU maintained their upper hand.
The Final Stretch
As the game progressed into the second half, ASU continued to build their lead, never once trailing behind. A pivotal moment came when Sanon hit another three-pointer, extending ASU’s lead to nine points. Meanwhile, GCU’s efforts to close the gap were thwarted by ASU’s consistent scoring and strategic plays.
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Grant-Foster’s Role: Late in the first half, Grant-Foster found his stride, contributing six points, two steals, and a rebound during an 11-1 run that briefly gave GCU a 34-29 advantage. However, this momentum was short-lived as ASU’s Sanon continued his sharpshooting, bringing the lead back up to 41-40 by halftime.
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Halftime Adjustments: Both teams returned from halftime with renewed strategies. ASU focused on maintaining their shooting efficiency, while GCU tried to find ways to disrupt ASU’s offensive rhythm. Despite these efforts, ASU’s shooting prowess proved too much for GCU to handle.
Post-Game Reflections
After the game, both coaches reflected on the high-caliber competition and the potential for future matchups.
- Bobby Hurley (ASU): “For the state of Arizona, to see two teams of that caliber basketball, it was great. If they get Foster back into the flow of what they're doing, I think they'll get better this season. I can't believe how much better we've gotten in three weeks.”
Looking Ahead
This game not only highlighted ASU’s strengths but also underscored the competitive spirit of college basketball. With the Hall of Fame Series Phoenix turning into a potential annual rivalry, fans can look forward to more exhilarating matchups in the future. ASU’s impressive shooting, strategic plays, and the electric atmosphere promise even more exciting games ahead.
Highlights to Remember
- Joson Sanon’s Hot Shooting: 21 points off the bench, with 5 of 7 from three-point range.
- Basheer Jihad’s All-Around Play: 18 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists.
- Tyon Grant-Foster’s Return: 19 points for GCU, showing flashes of his defensive capabilities.
- Jakobe Coles’ Perseverance: Despite illness and fouling out early, Coles scored 17 points.
- High-Energy Atmosphere: Comparable to NCAA Tournament vibes, making it a memorable night for players and fans alike.
Final Thoughts
Arizona State’s victory over Grand Canyon wasn’t just a win on the scoreboard; it was a statement of their rising dominance in college basketball. The combination of strategic shooting, strong coaching, and an electric crowd created an unforgettable experience that highlighted the best of what college basketball has to offer. As ASU continues to build on this momentum, the future looks bright for the Sun Devils, promising more thrilling games and intense rivalries in the seasons to come.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, games like these remind us why we love sports—the passion, the competition, and the unforgettable moments that keep us coming back for more. So, mark your calendars and get ready for more action-packed basketball as Arizona State and their rivals continue to make waves in the college basketball scene.
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