Current Form & Momentum
ASU (8-13, 2-7 Big 12) has lost six straight games, despite showing flashes of competitiveness.
Oklahoma State (17-3, 7-2 Big 12) is a strong team, ranked No. 24, and currently sitting near the top of the Big 12 standings.
ASU has struggled to close out games, with multiple near-miss losses, including a blown nine-point lead in the fourth quarter against Cincinnati.
Key Factors & Trends
1. Scoring & Star Players
Jalyn Brown (17.5 PPG, 19.0 PPG in Big 12 games): ASU’s primary scorer, consistently putting up 20+ points.
Tyi Skinner (15.7 PPG, 2.33 3PM per game): Dangerous from deep, needs a strong performance.
Kennedy Basham (2.33 BPG, 5.95 RPG): Defensive anchor, must protect the paint against OSU’s size.
2. Team Strengths
Free Throw Shooting (76.7%, 35th in NCAA): One of ASU’s most reliable offensive weapons.
Blocking Ability (4.1 BPG, 54th in NCAA): Basham leads a strong shot-blocking presence.
Rebounding (37.95 RPG, 5th in Big 12): Competitive on the boards but inconsistent.
3. Team Weaknesses
Fourth-Quarter Struggles: Multiple blown leads (Arkansas State, Cincinnati, Iowa State) suggest late-game issues.
Defensive Inconsistency: While ASU has a good shot-blocking presence, they have allowed opponents to score heavily at times (e.g., 102 points to Utah).
Turnovers & Execution: ASU has lost close games due to poor shot selection and execution in the final minutes.
Matchup vs. Oklahoma State
OSU is the favorite, boasting a 17-3 record and playing at home.
ASU needs to control the tempo and avoid defensive lapses, especially in the fourth quarter.
Stopping OSU’s inside game will be crucial, meaning Basham and Parkinson must have strong defensive performances.
Three-point shooting (ASU 35.4% in Big 12 play) could be an X-factor if Skinner, Brown, and LoVett hit shots.
Prediction
Realistic Expectation: Oklahoma State should be favored to win at home.
Path to an Upset: ASU must shoot well from three, limit turnovers, and maintain defensive intensity in the fourth quarter.
Final Score Projection: Oklahoma State 78, ASU 68.
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