Previewing the Arizona State–Texas Matchup in Maui

Sean Miller, Hurley Reunite

This will be the first time that the two former rivals square off since the 2020-21 season - Miller got the pair of victories before the University of Arizona fired him following the season.

Miller typically had his way against Hurley in the head-to-head matchups, as Arizona was routinely a more talented team during those years.

It will be fascinating to see how this game unfolds and what the pair of rivals has to say about one another following the game.

Texas Player to Watch: C Matas Vokietaitis

The sophomore center out of Lithuania has been an incredible addition to the Texas roster this season after originally standing out as a freshman at FAU.

Vokietaitis has attempted 41 free throws over the first five games, while also being efficient from the floor and securing seven blocks during the stretch.

ASU center Massamba Diop will have another challenging matchup in what will test the freshman's aptitude to adjust once again.

Prediction: Arizona State Win

The stars aren't necessarily aligning for a Sun Devil win, as ESPN's FPI gifts Texas an 86.5% chance to come out with a win.

However, the first five games should serve as a sign that Arizona State is better than many expected them to be, that Hurley's roster is fighting for him, and that the offense is exponentially better compared to last season - even with a purported decrease in talent on paper.

Expect PG Moe Odum and SG Bryce Ford to continue their sharpshooting ways. Santiago Trouet is a player to watch as well, as the San Diego transfer has yet to gain footing in his transition to the high-major level.

Anthony "Pig" Johnson will ultimately be a difference maker in this game, as his microwave scoring and relentless defensive pressure are always conspicuous.

Read more on why the Arizona State men's basketball team will exceed expectations in the 2025-26 season here, and on major takeaways from the Sun Devils’ convincing win over Colorado in week 13 here.