The Arizona State Sun Devils were handed their first true test against San Diego State two games ago. They paraded to a 22-point win. On Saturday, they got their first taste at a zone defense with a towering lineup. Sunday’s result was a 21-point win over UC Irvine, 99-78.
However, it wasn’t without a challenge.
The Sun Devils were outrebounded, 34-28, as the Anteaters rotated five players in and out of at least 6-8, including 2016-17 defensive player of the year 6-10 Justin Galloway. Their height hindered the Arizona State’s abilities in the post, as ASU’s three big men scored just 18 of their 99 points.