25 Facts About Arizona State Basketball

The Birth of Arizona State Basketball

Arizona State Basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments and standout players. Here are some fascinating facts that highlight the journey of this storied program.

1. Arizona State University (ASU) established its basketball program in 1911, making it one of the oldest in the country.

2. The team's nickname, the Sun Devils, was adopted in 1946 after a student vote. Before that, they were known as the Bulldogs.

3. ASU's official mascot is Sparky the Sun Devil, a character designed by former Disney illustrator Bert Anthony in 1946.

Memorable Seasons and Achievements

ASU Basketball has had its share of remarkable seasons and achievements. Let's take a look at some of the highlights.

4. The Sun Devils made their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 1961, marking the beginning of their journey on the national stage.

5. In 1975, ASU reached the Elite Eight, their deepest run in the NCAA Tournament to date.

6. The team has won a total of eight conference championships, showcasing their competitive spirit over the years.

Legendary Coaches

Coaches play a crucial role in shaping a team's success. ASU has been fortunate to have some legendary figures at the helm.

7. Ned Wulk, who coached from 1958 to 1982, is the winningest coach in ASU history with 406 victories.

8. Bill Frieder, who led the team from 1989 to 1997, brought a new level of excitement and success to the program.

9. Bobby Hurley, a former Duke standout and current head coach, has revitalized the team since taking over in 2015.

Standout Players

ASU has produced numerous talented players who have left a lasting impact on the program and beyond.

10. James Harden, a two-time NBA MVP, played for ASU from 2007 to 2009 and led the team to the NCAA Tournament.

11. Byron Scott, a three-time NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers, starred at ASU from 1979 to 1983.

12. Eddie House, who played from 1996 to 2000, is the school's all-time leading scorer with 2,044 points.

Iconic Moments

Certain moments in ASU Basketball history stand out for their drama and significance. Here are a few unforgettable highlights.

13. In 1981, ASU defeated top-ranked Oregon State in a thrilling 87-67 victory, one of the biggest upsets in school history.

14. The Sun Devils' 2017 victory over Kansas, ranked No. 2 at the time, was a signature win for Coach Hurley and the program.

15. ASU's 2018 win against Arizona in the Territorial Cup game was a memorable moment, as it ended a five-game losing streak to their rivals.

The Home Court Advantage

Playing at home has always been a significant advantage for the Sun Devils. Let's explore their home court history.

16. The team plays its home games at Desert Financial Arena, which opened in 1974 and has a seating capacity of 14,198.

17. The arena was originally named ASU Activity Center before being renamed Wells Fargo Arena in 1997 and Desert Financial Arena in 2019.

18. ASU has a strong home-court advantage, with a winning percentage of over .700 at Desert Financial Arena.

Community and Culture

ASU Basketball is more than just a team; it's a community with a vibrant culture. Here are some aspects that make it unique.

19. The 942 Crew, ASU's student section, is known for its passionate support and creative chants, making the arena a tough place for opponents.

20. The Sun Devils' rivalry with the Arizona Wildcats, known as the Duel in the Desert, is one of the fiercest in college basketball.

21. ASU's annual "White Out" game, where fans wear white to create a sea of white in the stands, is a highly anticipated event each season.

Recent Success and Future Prospects

The future looks bright for ASU Basketball, with recent successes and promising prospects on the horizon.

22. In 2019, ASU made back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances for the first time since 1981.

23. The team has consistently recruited top talent, with several players ranked among the best in the nation.

24. ASU's commitment to improving facilities and resources has positioned the program for sustained success.

25. With Coach Hurley at the helm and a strong roster, the Sun Devils are poised to make more noise in the NCAA Tournament in the coming years.

Final Thoughts on Arizona State Basketball

Arizona State Basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments and remarkable players. From James Harden's standout college career to the team's multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, there's a lot to appreciate. The Sun Devils have consistently shown resilience and determination, making them a team worth following. Their dedicated fan base and competitive spirit contribute to the vibrant atmosphere at games. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to college basketball, Arizona State offers plenty of excitement. Keep an eye on their upcoming seasons for more thrilling performances and potential milestones. With a strong foundation and a promising future, Arizona State Basketball continues to be a significant force in college sports. So, next time you're looking for a team to root for, consider the Sun Devils—they might just surprise you.