Washington and Arizona still top the conference, but a recent surge from ASU basketball might spark change in the next few weeks.
A breakthrough, or fool’s gold?
Either can be argued, but for now, Arizona State is back in the Pac-12 title mix. A sweep of the Oregon schools catapulted the Sun Devils’ success, bringing their conference record to 4-2, the best start in coach Bobby Hurley’s tenure.
At third in the standings, ASU’s recovery makes things interesting. Arizona suffered its first conference loss to Oregon, leaving Washington as the only unbeaten in league action. Both UA and UW are set to play in Tempe in the next three weeks, making the Sun Devils’ trip to Los Angeles this week that much more important.
Speaking of Los Angeles – USC emerged against UCLA in Saturday’s crosstown rivalry game. Both schools are 3-2 in conference play, but the Trojans’ victory gives them an edge before facing the Arizona schools.
Despite a 2-3 record, Oregon may have found a recipe to compete. Louis King and Paul White are in offensive rhythms, giving the Ducks offensive weapons they lacked without Bol Bol. Oregon State, on the other hand, has work to do after losing its first two games in the same week.
While there’s separation at the top, this week’s play will do its part in determining how far that is. Let’s take a look at where each team stands in this week’s Power Rankings.