Key Highlights
- Aztec State Sun Devils reveal starting five before crucial game vs. Texas Tech.
- Bryce Ford unlikely to play, tightening rotation for the Sun Devils.
- Moe Odum and Santiago Trouet lead the lineup with key matchups against Texas Tech’s starting unit.
- Game scheduled for February 4, 2026, at Desert Financial Arena in Tempe.
Bobby Hurley’s Arizona State Sun Devils are facing a tough challenge as they prepare to take on the #13 Texas Tech Red Raiders. The Sun Devils have been hit hard by injuries, with key player Bryce Ford ruled out for this match. This development has compressed their rotation even more, making the game against Texas Tech all the more crucial.
Rotation Struggles
The Sun Devils are set to roll out an abbreviated rotation once again due to injuries. Moe Odum, who has been the engine that keeps Arizona State functioning throughout the season, will lead the lineup alongside Noah Meeusen, Santiago Trouet, Andrija Grbovic, and Massamba Diop. The team’s ability to stay consistent despite numerous challenges speaks volumes about their resilience.
Odum’s Consistency
Moe Odum has been a constant presence for the Sun Devils this season. Leaning on his experience and leadership, he continues to lead the squad in scoring, assists, and steals—having appeared in every single game, a true testament of his reliability.
Key Matchup
Trouet is coming off one of his best performances last Tuesday against Oklahoma State. Scoring 16 points and grabbing 10 rebounds, he arguably tipped the scales in that tight matchup. This performance will be crucial as Texas Tech comes into the game with a formidable front-line.
Diop’s Impact
Massamba Diop is once again expected to unilaterally impact the game on both sides of the ball. Despite facing a challenging opponent, he has shown that he can handle the pressure and will be relied upon heavily tonight.
The presumption is that Arizona State will use two bench players tonight—Anthony “Pig” Johnson and Allen Mukeba. However, guard Trevor Best might see some time as well, adding depth to the lineup.
Game Time
Aztec State and Texas Tech are set for a tip-off at approximately 9:00 P.M. MST on February 4, 2026, at Desert Financial Arena in Tempe. This game marks the first of six remaining regular-season games for both teams.
With the stakes high, Bobby Hurley’s strategy will be key as he faces more challenges compared to his counterpart Grant McCasland. The Sun Devils must find a way to overcome their injuries and deliver a strong performance against Texas Tech if they hope to maintain any chance of success in the final stretch of the season.
