What a time to be a Sun Devil.
The Arizona State Sun Devils (10-0) moved up to third in the latest edition of the AP Poll. For the Devils, this ties the highest ranking in program history. The last time the Devils were ranked third in the nation was 1981, a year in which they finished 24-4. That team was led by Byron Scott and Alton Lister.
With the third-ranked Wichita State Shockers losing this past week, it was expected the Devils would move up at least one spot. After a come-from-behind win over Vanderbilt, the Devils leapfrogged over Duke, who didn’t play a game this week. ASU also received five first-place votes as well. The magical run continues for Bobby Hurley and the Devils, as they move to 10-0 for the first time in program history.
Not only are the Devils catching the eyes of basketball fans around the country, they’re most importantly catching the eyes of fans in Tempe. Nearly 11,000 fans showed up for yesterday’s game against Vanderbilt. On top of that, the student section set a winter break record for most students to attend a winter-break game, per the 942 Crew. It appears everyone is starting to catch a case of Sun Devil fever.
The Devils look to continue their winning streak as they host the Longwood Lancers (3-8) Tuesday night in Tempe. After having arguably one of the toughest schedules to start the season, it’s safe to assume ASU will enjoy getting some “cupcake” games. This is a game the Sun Devils should take with ease. The Lancers are in last place in the Big South conference, and have only two players who average double-digits in points. It will be tough for them to try and keep up, as they average only 65 points a game, which is good for 329th in the nation.
The game can be seen on the Pac-12 Network at 7 p.m. M.T.
