Arizona State preview capsule
By The Associated Press=
Arizona State
Last season: 15-17, 11th in the Pac-12.
Nickname: Sun Devils.
Coach: Bobby Hurley.
Conference: Pac-12.
Who’s gone: C Eric Jacobsen, F Willie Atwood, F Savon Goodman, G Gerry Blakes.
Who’s back: Junior G Tra Holder has established himself as one of the Pac-12’s top guards, averaging 14.2 points and 3.7 assists last season. F Obinna Oleka can play both forward positions, shoot from the perimeter or crash inside. G Kodi Justice can play both guard positions and provides instant offense.
Who’s new: G Shannon Evans is expected to team with Holder in one of the Pac-12’s best backcourts, one that will be enhanced by Sam Cunliffe, ASU’s highest-rated recruit since James Harden in 2007. Freshman forwards Jethro Tshisumpa and Ramon Vila will be counted on right away with Arizona State’s lack of depth on the front line.
The Skinny: The Sun Devils will be able to compete with nearly anyone on the perimeter. The problem will be inside, where injuries and ineligibilities have left them thin. Making the NCAA Tournament in Hurley’s second season will be a huge accomplishment.
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