Texas Tech, currently ranked 13th, is preparing to face Arizona State on Tuesday night. This game follows a significant upset victory for the Red Raiders against top-ranked Arizona, showcasing their resilience and competitive spirit. Despite their recent successes, the team acknowledges they are still in the early stages of reaching their full potential. Meanwhile, Arizona State, coming off a win against Oklahoma State, is looking to build momentum and improve their season standing, particularly in the rebounding department, which has been a point of struggle for them.
This contest features two teams with differing recent trajectories. Texas Tech, riding a three-game winning streak, is demonstrating strong team cohesion and individual brilliance, especially from their key players. Arizona State, while struggling with consistency this season, has shown flashes of improvement and will be eager to prove themselves against a highly ranked opponent. The game promises to be a battle of strategic plays and individual matchups, with both teams having strong incentives to secure a victory.
Red Raiders' Momentum and Key Players
Texas Tech, holding a 19-6 record overall and 9-3 in the Big 12, enters the game with significant momentum, having secured three consecutive wins, including an impressive 78-75 upset over No. 1 Arizona. Coach Grant McCasland emphasizes the team's ongoing development, stating they are "just scratching the surface" of their capabilities and are prepared for the rigorous fight of Big 12 play. The team's recent performance underscores their belief in daily effort and competitive spirit, propelling them through a demanding season.
The Red Raiders' success is largely powered by the exceptional performances of their star players. JT Toppin, a dominant post player and the reigning Big 12 Player of the Year, delivered an outstanding 31 points and 13 rebounds in the victory against Arizona. He maintains an impressive season average of 21.9 points and 11 rebounds per game. Complementing Toppin is point guard Christian Anderson, who contributed 19 points, eight assists, and six rebounds in the same game, including making 6 of 15 shots from beyond the arc. Coach McCasland praised the fighting spirit of his team, highlighting Toppin's and Anderson's determination as pivotal to their wins.
Arizona State's Rebounding Improvement and Challenge Ahead
Arizona State, with a season record of 13-12 overall and 4-8 in conference play, is coming off a home victory against Oklahoma State. This win marked a crucial moment for the Sun Devils, as they aimed to achieve consecutive victories for the first time since early December. Their recent performance against Oklahoma State, particularly their improved rebounding, provides a glimmer of hope as they prepare to face a formidable Texas Tech squad.
The Sun Devils' success against Oklahoma State was significantly boosted by their rebounding effort, securing a 45-34 advantage on the boards, including a notable 19-10 edge in offensive rebounds, which translated into a 38-26 advantage in points in the paint. Coach Bobby Hurley expressed satisfaction with the team's improved rebounding, recognizing it as a critical factor in their recent win. Arizona State will rely on the talents of 7-foot-2 freshman Massamba Diop, averaging 13.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks, and seasoned point guard Maurice Odum, contributing 17 points and six assists per game, to counter Texas Tech's strong lineup. Despite their struggles this season, a victory against a highly-ranked opponent like Texas Tech would significantly enhance their NET ranking and improve their prospects for a late-season push.