In a thrilling matchup, Jose Perez and Frankie Collins showcased their skills as Arizona State secured a decisive 82-70 win against Utah on Thursday night, marking their third consecutive victory. Let’s dive into the game-changing moments and the standout performances that propelled Arizona State to success.
A Rocky Start to Redemption
Arizona State faced a challenging nonconference slate, losing three games in a row by an average of 14.6 points. However, the tides turned as they entered Pac-12 play with a determination to redeem themselves.
Perez’s Heroics in the First Half
Jose Perez became the catalyst for Arizona State’s success. With a season-high 27 points, Perez not only scored crucial points but also displayed his playmaking prowess. A 3-pointer just before halftime gave Arizona State the lead, setting the stage for an exhilarating second half.
Collins Takes Center Stage
Frankie Collins emerged as a key player, adding 14 of his 19 points in the second half. His exceptional performance included a nine-point streak, featuring a pivotal 3-pointer that widened the gap. Collins’ contribution played a vital role in securing the lead that Arizona State maintained throughout the game.
Utah’s Spirited Fight
Utah, with an impressive record of 11-3, fought hard against the Sun Devils. Branden Carlson led the charge with 19 points and eight rebounds, but Arizona State’s relentless offense proved too much for the Runnin’ Utes.
The Arizona Trip Challenge
Historically, the Arizona trip has been a tough one for Utah, and this game proved no different. Despite a back-and-forth first half with 12 lead changes, Arizona State pulled ahead, leaving Utah trailing at halftime.
Stats Snapshot
Let’s break down the numbers:
- Carlson’s Dominance: Branden Carlson’s 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 7-15 shooting showcased his impact on Utah’s performance.
- Team Effort: Utah struggled, shooting 41% from the field, 32% from beyond the arc, and 58% from the free-throw line.
- Rebounds and Turnovers: Despite collecting 41 team rebounds and showing defensive prowess with six steals, Utah’s 15 turnovers cost them dearly.
Looking Ahead: Utah’s Road Trip Continues
After the tough loss to Arizona State, Utah sets its sights on No. 10 Arizona in their next game. The Runnin’ Utes aim to bounce back and improve their 11-3 season record.
Conclusion: Arizona State’s Triumph
In summary, Arizona State’s victory against Utah showcased a resilient comeback and stellar individual performances. Perez and Collins led the charge, highlighting the Sun Devils’ potential in the competitive landscape of college basketball.
Read: Dominating Victory: Indiana Pacers Triumph Over Milwaukee Bucks with a Stunning 142-130 Win
FAQs
- How many consecutive wins does Arizona State have now?
- Arizona State has secured its third consecutive win with the triumph over Utah.
- Who were the standout players for Arizona State in the game?
- Jose Perez and Frankie Collins emerged as key players, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
- What challenges did Utah face during the game?
- Despite a strong performance from Branden Carlson, Utah struggled with turnovers and shooting percentages.
- What is Utah’s season record after the game against Arizona State?
- After the game, Utah holds an 11-3 season record.
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