The first-half work and performance of Arizona State were good, and at the right time, the state triumphed over its two-game losing streak by defeating Utah 71-63 on Wednesday night, having 12-11 overall (3-7 Big 12).
First-Half Control Sets the Tone
The Sun Devils led from the start and amassed a 41-25 lead at halftime through aggressive defense and effective shot selection. The first half was marked by a 12 0 scoring spurt, where Arizona State increased its lead to a maximum of 18 and held Utah at bay throughout the night.
Arizona State needed to depend on donations throughout the lineup as it only had seven players available because of the injuries. Massamba Diop, the freshman center, got 15 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks, and has now scored at least two blocks in five consecutive games, adding to his recent defensive wave.
Anthony Johnson made a strong impact off the bench with 14 points, while Moe Odum added 13 points and eight assists. Odum also threw another crucial floater encompassing slightly more than a minute left to prevent a late-run by Utah.
Defense Makes the Difference
The Sun Devils employed a disciplined zone defense, which effectively disrupted Utah's offense and guarded the paint. Arizona State defeated Utah star Terrence Brown, who came to the field as the fourth-best scorer in the country, but was only allowed to score six points on 2-of-16 shots.
ASU also won the turnover battle as it had only five turnovers, forced 13 turns and made 82 percent of its free throws to end the game.
When Utah narrowed down the deficit to 6561 later in the second half, Arizona State did the same, with a clutch shot and four consecutive free throws to win it. The Sun Devils have become 7-0 in this season with a record of keeping foes to 70 points or less. Arizona State will next travel to Boulder to face Colorado on Saturday, February 7.