Byu Cougars vs Arizona State Sun Devils Picks and Predictions December 31st 2024

Arizona State Opens Big 12 Era at BYU

Arizona State begins its inaugural Big 12 Conference season with momentum as it visits BYU on Tuesday in Provo, Utah. Both teams enter the matchup with 9-2 records and optimism heading into league play.

Arizona State’s Momentum

The Sun Devils have won seven of their last eight games, with their only losses coming against top-10 opponents Gonzaga and Florida. Guard Alston Mason, a transfer from Missouri State, believes the team is ready for the challenge of the Big 12.

“We had a really tough nonconference schedule. I know our guys are ready to start Big 12 play, and they’re excited to get after it,” Mason said. “Hopefully, we shock a lot of people and make an impact in conference play.”

Mason has been a key contributor, averaging 11.5 points and 3.5 assists per game. Arizona State also leans on freshman guard Joson Sanon, who leads the team with 14.0 points per game while shooting an impressive 50.9 percent from beyond the arc.

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Picked to finish 12th in the Big 12 preseason poll, Arizona State is looking to exceed expectations in its new conference.

BYU’s Steady Start

The Cougars, picked ninth in the Big 12 preseason poll, are also riding a strong start under first-year head coach Kevin Young. Young brings a wealth of experience, having served as the Phoenix Suns’ associate head coach from 2021 to 2024.

BYU’s two losses came against Ole Miss and Providence, while their most notable victory was against North Carolina State in San Diego. Young acknowledged the need for continuous improvement as the schedule intensifies.

“In hindsight, I wish there could have been more power teams we could have learned to play from even more,” Young said. “I have learned a ton and will continue to do so as the schedule gets harder.”

Key Players Returning

The Cougars received a boost with the availability of Egor Demin and Richie Saunders for the Arizona State game. Demin, who has been out since Dec. 3 with a leg injury, is averaging 13.3 points and 5.8 assists per game. Saunders, sidelined with a concussion, contributes 12.3 points per game.

The Matchup

Arizona State brings a balanced offense led by Sanon’s sharp shooting and Mason’s playmaking. BYU counters with a versatile roster bolstered by Demin and Saunders’ return. Both teams are eager to establish themselves in the highly competitive Big 12 and set the tone for the remainder of the season.

This matchup not only marks the beginning of a new era for Arizona State but also serves as a test for BYU as they adapt to life in one of college basketball’s most demanding conferences.