ASU entering new College Basketball Crown tournament

Why is ASU participating in the College Basketball Crown Tournament?

The 16-team tournament will take place in Las Vegas at the MGM Grand Garden Arena for the first two rounds, with the final two at T-Mobile Arena. The College Basketball Crown will have NBA scouts in attendance and have NIL opportunities for players.

ASU athletic director Graham Rossini has confirmed that Hurley will be back next season, so the tournament is a great jump start for what the team could look like next season. The final stretch of the season saw Sun Devil freshmen step up in a major way.

Freshman starters guard Joson Sanon and forward Amier Ali have had to endure many of the season’s hardships. However, the duo’s play improved as the season progressed and will be vital to the roster in the tournament and next season.

The two 17-year-olds, freshmen guard Trevor Best and center Jayden Quaintance, could shine in the event. The former high school teammates joined the Sun Devils at different times, but both made an impact in their first game with the program. Best joined ASU in January, and playing in the tournament could generate much-needed reps before next year.

Quaintance missed the season’s final four games, so his status for the College Basketball Crown is up in the air. If he does return, the All-Big 12 Freshman team member would be an integral piece for a deep run.

Hurley is highly regard as a recruiter, and a encouraging run in the Vegas tournament would be an easy sell to recruits then a one-and-done appearance in the Big 12 tournament. ASU’s success next season will be connected to its play in the College Basketball Crown.