(Photo: Scotty Bara/WCSN)
Arizona State couldn’t have found a better way to start conference play than their dominating win against Washington, 62-48. After the first ten minutes it appeared the game could have gone either way, but then Washington allowed Arizona State to go on a 13-0 run to end the half, which turned into a 20-3 run into the second.
Coming into conference play, Washington (11-2) and ASU (12-1) both boasted an 11-1 record against varied non-conference opponents. Arizona State found the formula for success, containing Washington’s offense and turning their lapses into offense.
Player of the Game: Sophie Brunner
Sophie Brunner had another strong offensive performance, putting up 12 points on the game, giving her yet another game in double digits. What was really impressive tonight was her ability to stay out of foul trouble. Coach Charli Turner Thorne has been concerned with the team’s foul troubles as a whole, and Sophie Brunner has definitely contributed to that problem, but tonight she didn’t commit any.Brunner added five rebounds, and was opportunistic on the defensive end as well finishing with four steals.
Stat of the Night: 24 Turnovers for 25 Points
ASU really capitalized on sloppy play by Washington, forcing 24 turnovers and then tallying 25 points off of those turnovers. Kelsey Moos and Sophie Brunner had four steals each, leading a team that had 15 steals on the night. A lot of Washington’s mistakes came when they tried to force the ball into the paint, where Moos, Quinn Dornstauder, and Brunner were waiting to interrupt passes and create turnovers.
Biggest Concern: Slowing Down
The Sun Devils found themselves in a commanding position, up by 28 points during the second half, but they then gave Washington some space to come back and make this game closer. Washington went on a 11 point run to make this game within striking distance. Although ASU was never in any real danger to give up their lead, their lead won’t always be as comfortable as 28 points. Looking forward, ASU must try to work on not slowing down and letting off the gas pedal if they are comfortably ahead.
What’s Next
The Sun Devils are back at it Monday night against Washington State. The game starts at 8:00 PM MST at Wells Fargo Arena.
