Naming Key Arizona State Non-Conference Superlatives

TEMPE -- Bobby Hurley has done an admirable job in recent months as far as rebuilding a roster that was left decimated by players on the 2024-25 season running out of eligibility or transferring out, while also coaching a group that had never played before together to a 9-4 mark heading into a daunting Big 12 slate.

The non-conference stretch of games was highlighted by wins over NCAA tournament contenders in Texas, Oklahoma, Hawaii, and Santa Clara - while also competing in losses, including a legitimate national title contender in Gonzaga.

Arizona State on SI names four team superlatives below - MVP, rising star, sixth man, and biggest surprise - with 18 games remaining until the Big 12 tournament in Kansas City, Missouri, in mid-March.

Team MVP: Moe Odum

Odum is the simple pick here - his struggles with scoring efficiency over the last four games shouldn't change this notion.

Odum's 36-point showing against Texas in Maui a month ago catalyzed the stretch that placed ASU in position to reach tournament conversations - he backed that up with several other efficient scoring performances, including chipping in 17 points on just seven shots against Oklahoma.

Beyond the scoring, Odum has been a true "pure" point guard, serving in a leadership role that is intangible, but is felt all the same, while also playing a major role in the player who will be discussed below, making a smooth transition to college hoops. Odum's ability to be disruptive defensively is also of note, particularly in playing the passing lanes and communicating.

Rising Star: Massamba Diop

The freshman center - who made a transition from playing professionally in Spain to playing at ASU - has been one of the most closely followed players within the program this season.

The 7'1" Senegalese talent has reached double-figure scoring totals over the last four games, displaying a touch on his jump shot, refined post skills, and an ability as a screener that has improved by the game.

Beyond the offensive side of the ball, Diop paces the team with 1.5 blocks per game and has shown real NBA upside as a rim protector. He will likely be a prospect to play at the next level in the near future.