What's Happening?
The Arizona State Sun Devils men's basketball team is entering the final six games of their 2025-26 season, following a significant victory over Oklahoma State. The team, led by head coach Bobby Hurley, faces a challenging schedule with away games against Baylor, TCU, and Iowa State, and home games against ranked teams Texas Tech and Kansas. Despite their efforts, the Sun Devils are considered a long shot for the NCAA tournament, with only a 3% chance of making the 68-team field according to TeamRankings. The team's performance in these final games will be crucial, not only for their tournament hopes but also for the future of head coach Bobby Hurley, whose contract discussions may depend on the team's success.
Why It's Important?
The outcome of these games is pivotal
for Arizona State's basketball program. A successful run could elevate the team into the NCAA tournament conversation, which would be a significant achievement given their current standing. Additionally, the future of head coach Bobby Hurley is uncertain, as his contract renewal may hinge on the team's performance. This situation also impacts player retention and recruitment, as a coaching change could lead to shifts in the team's composition and strategy. The decisions made in the coming weeks will have long-term implications for the program's direction and competitiveness.
What's Next?
Arizona State must win at least four of their remaining six games and perform well in the Big 12 tournament to improve their chances of making the NCAA tournament. The athletic department may need to initiate a coaching search if Hurley is not retained, which could affect player decisions regarding transfers and commitments. The team's immediate focus will be on securing victories against their upcoming opponents, starting with a home game against Texas Tech.
