25 Facts About Arizona State Vs. Gonzaga

Arizona State vs. Gonzaga: A Basketball Rivalry

Arizona State and Gonzaga have built a fascinating rivalry over the years. Their matchups are always thrilling, filled with intense moments and memorable plays. Let's dive into some interesting facts about this exciting basketball rivalry.

1. Arizona State University (ASU) and Gonzaga University are both known for their strong basketball programs, consistently making appearances in the NCAA tournament.

2. Gonzaga's basketball team, the Bulldogs, has been a powerhouse in college basketball, often ranked in the top 10 nationally.

3. ASU's team, the Sun Devils, has a rich history of producing NBA talent, including stars like James Harden.

4. The first recorded game between ASU and Gonzaga took place in 1957, with Gonzaga winning 73-63.

5. Gonzaga's home court, the McCarthey Athletic Center, is often referred to as "The Kennel" due to its raucous atmosphere.

6. ASU's home games are played at the Desert Financial Arena, which can hold over 14,000 fans.

Memorable Moments in Their Matchups

Every game between these two teams brings unforgettable moments. Here are some highlights from their past encounters.

7. In 2018, ASU upset Gonzaga, who was ranked #1 at the time, with a thrilling 76-73 victory.

8. Gonzaga's largest margin of victory over ASU came in 2004, when they won 87-52.

9. The 2019 matchup saw Gonzaga narrowly defeat ASU 84-80 in a nail-biting finish.

10. ASU's Remy Martin scored a career-high 31 points against Gonzaga in their 2018 victory.

11. Gonzaga's Rui Hachimura had a standout performance in 2019, scoring 26 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.

Coaching Legends

Both teams have been led by some legendary coaches who have left a lasting impact on their programs.

12. Gonzaga's Mark Few has been the head coach since 1999, leading the Bulldogs to multiple NCAA tournament appearances and Final Fours.

13. ASU's Bobby Hurley, a former Duke standout, has been the head coach since 2015, revitalizing the Sun Devils' program.

14. Mark Few has an impressive winning percentage of over .800, making him one of the most successful coaches in college basketball history.

15. Bobby Hurley is known for his fiery coaching style and ability to develop guard play, a key factor in ASU's success.

Player Achievements

The rivalry has showcased some incredible individual performances from players on both sides.

16. James Harden, an ASU alum, was named the Pac-10 Player of the Year in 2009 before becoming an NBA superstar.

17. Gonzaga's Adam Morrison was a finalist for the Naismith College Player of the Year award in 2006.

18. ASU's Ike Diogu was a two-time All-American and the Pac-10 Player of the Year in 2005.

19. Gonzaga's Jalen Suggs hit a game-winning buzzer-beater in the 2021 Final Four, cementing his place in college basketball history.

20. ASU's Luguentz Dort, now an NBA player, was named to the Pac-12 All-Freshman Team in 2019.

Fan Culture and Traditions

The fans of both teams bring energy and passion to every game, creating an electric atmosphere.

21. Gonzaga's student section, known as the "Kennel Club," is famous for its loud and enthusiastic support.

22. ASU's "942 Crew" is the student section that brings the noise at Desert Financial Arena, named after the arena's seating capacity.

23. Gonzaga fans often wear "Zag Up" shirts to show their school spirit during games.

24. ASU fans participate in the "Curtain of Distraction," where students behind the basket try to distract opposing free-throw shooters with creative antics.

25. Both schools have a tradition of storming the court after significant victories, adding to the excitement of their matchups.

Final Thoughts on Arizona State vs. Gonzaga

Arizona State vs. Gonzaga isn't just another game; it's a clash of titans. Both teams have rich histories, passionate fan bases, and a knack for thrilling performances. Arizona State, known for its resilience and fiery spirit, often brings unexpected twists to the court. Gonzaga, with its consistent excellence and strategic gameplay, never fails to impress. When these two teams meet, expect nothing less than edge-of-your-seat excitement. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this matchup promises unforgettable moments. So, next time these teams face off, grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the show. The rivalry between Arizona State and Gonzaga is a testament to the beauty of college basketball, where anything can happen, and every game is a new chapter in an ongoing saga.