Full Breakdown
Arizona and Arizona State Basketball Programs Enter New Era in Big 12
10/23/2025, 1:31:23 PM
Transitioning to the Big 12 Conference
As the Arizona Wildcats and Arizona State Sun Devils prepare for the 2025-26 basketball season, both programs are navigating significant transitions in their first full year in the Big 12 Conference. Arizona, under head coach Tommy Lloyd, aims to build on a successful inaugural season, while Arizona State, led by Bobby Hurley and new women's coach Molly Miller, seeks to rejuvenate their programs after recent struggles.
Arizona Wildcats: Building on Success
Arizona's men's basketball team, coming off a 24-13 season, is focused on maintaining momentum. Coach Tommy Lloyd emphasized the importance of blending returning players with new talent, stating, “We feel great about our four returning guys... and how to start filling in the gaps.” The Wildcats will face a challenging non-conference schedule, including games against top-ranked teams like Florida and UCLA, which Lloyd believes will prepare his squad for the rigors of the Big 12.
The Wildcats also boast a strong recruiting class, ranked second nationally, featuring five-star prospect Koa Peat. Lloyd's strategy prioritizes high school talent over transfers, reflecting a commitment to long-term development.
Arizona State Sun Devils: Rebuilding Efforts
In contrast, Arizona State's men's basketball program is in a precarious position as Bobby Hurley enters the final year of his contract. Hurley acknowledged the challenges of recruiting amid uncertainty, stating, “People are telling them I might not be here... and it’s used as ammunition against us.” The Sun Devils have struggled in recent seasons, with a combined 27-38 record over the past two years. Hurley aims to stabilize the program by focusing on player development and team chemistry.
On the women's side, Molly Miller is tasked with revitalizing a program that has not made the NCAA Tournament since 2019. Miller, who joined ASU after a successful stint at Grand Canyon University, is optimistic about her team's potential. She noted the importance of daily progress in practice, aiming for “daily wins” to build a competitive squad.
Key Figures and Coaching Strategies
Both Arizona and Arizona State have new head coaches who bring distinct philosophies to their programs. Miller and Burke, the new head coach for Arizona women's basketball, share a commitment to fostering a positive team culture. Burke highlighted the need for her players to establish consistency, stating, “Nobody’s really kind of stepped out and said, ‘Okay, I’m going to be consistent every single day.’”
Meanwhile, Hurley’s focus on player development is evident as he integrates new transfers into the Sun Devils' roster. He expressed a desire to create a cohesive unit capable of competing in the Big 12.
Conclusion: A Season of Opportunity
As both Arizona and Arizona State embark on their journeys in the Big 12, the upcoming season presents opportunities for growth and success. With challenging schedules and new coaching strategies, the programs aim to establish themselves in a competitive conference landscape. The outcomes of their efforts will not only impact their immediate futures but also shape the long-term trajectories of both basketball programs.
