The January 8, 2025, matchup between the Arizona State Sun Devils and the No. 11 Kansas Jayhawks at Allen Fieldhouse was a highly anticipated Big 12 clash. Kansas emerged victorious with a 74-55 final score, overcoming a sluggish first half to dominate the second. This article dives into the player stats, key performances, and unique insights from this game, drawing on the latest available data.
Game Overview
Kansas (11-3, 2-1 Big 12) showcased their defensive prowess, forcing 18 ASU turnovers that led to 22 points. The Sun Devils (10-4, 1-2 Big 12) struggled offensively, shooting just 21.7% from the field in the second half and 35.8% overall. The Jayhawks trailed 42-36 at halftime but flipped the script with a stifling defense and timely offensive plays.
Read More: Eagles vs. Cavaliers 2024: A Statistical Breakdown of the Gridiron Showdown
Key Player Stats: Kansas Jayhawks
- Hunter Dickinson (Center): Dickinson was a force, contributing significantly on both ends. While exact stats for this game are not fully detailed in the sources, his presence in the paint was noted as a challenge for ASU’s frontcourt. Dickinson’s ability to anchor Kansas’ defense and score efficiently inside was pivotal.
- Shakeel Moore (Guard): The Mississippi State transfer earned his second consecutive start and delivered. Moore scored 8 points in 20 minutes, including a momentum-shifting steal and dunk that ignited the Allen Fieldhouse crowd. He added 3 rebounds and 6 assists, showcasing his defensive tenacity and playmaking. Coach Bill Self praised Moore’s ability to make “big plays,” suggesting he may have secured the fifth starting spot.
- KJ Adams Jr. (Forward): Adams contributed with a highlight-reel dunk and solid defense. His athleticism helped Kansas exploit ASU’s turnovers in transition.
- Dajuan Harris Jr. (Guard): Harris facilitated the offense, driving around ASU’s Alston Mason with ease. His playmaking helped Kansas capitalize on ASU’s 18 turnovers.
- AJ Storr (Guard): Storr struggled, with porous defense leading to an ASU run in the first half. He was benched for the entire second half, reflecting Coach Self’s disappointment in the highly touted transfer’s inconsistent play this season.
Key Player Stats: Arizona State Sun Devils
- Adam Miller (Guard): Miller, a sharpshooter, was a focal point for Kansas’ defense. He shot 48% from three-point range on 3.8 attempts per game entering the matchup, with 75% of his shots coming from beyond the arc. Kansas’ Shakeel Moore was tasked with face-guarding Miller, limiting his impact. Specific stats for Miller in this game are unavailable, but his perimeter threat was neutralized.
- Alston Mason (Guard): Mason showed flashes but struggled against Kansas’ pressure. He hit a three-pointer at the halftime buzzer in a previous game, but Harris outmaneuvered him in this matchup.
- Team Struggles: ASU’s offense faltered, with a 21.7% second-half shooting performance. The Sun Devils’ 18 turnovers were a season-high, reflecting Kansas’ defensive intensity. Their free-throw rate (No. 76 nationally at 76.9) didn’t translate into enough points, as Kansas’ No. 5-ranked adjusted defensive efficiency (per KenPom) stifled their attack.
Unique Insights
- Shakeel Moore’s Emergence: Moore’s steal-and-dunk sequence was a turning point, earning a standing ovation from the Allen Fieldhouse crowd. His “pesky” full-court defense and knack for momentum plays have made him a fan favorite and a potential X-factor for Kansas moving forward.
- ASU’s Turnover Woes: The Sun Devils’ 18 turnovers were uncharacteristic for a team ranked No. 32 in adjusted defensive efficiency. Kansas’ ability to force mistakes highlighted their elite defensive potential, especially in the second half.
- Historical Context: ASU had won the previous two meetings in 2017 and 2018, making this Kansas victory a statement in the series. The Jayhawks’ home dominance (despite three home losses earlier in the season) was reaffirmed.
- Coaching Dynamics: Bill Self’s adjustments at halftime were crucial. His decision to bench Storr and rely on Moore’s defense showcased his willingness to adapt, even with a talented roster. Self described the team’s defensive effort as “exceptional,” a testament to their second-half turnaround.
Recent Context and Team Form
Kansas entered the game off a dominant win over UCF, while ASU was coming off a victory against Colorado. However, ASU’s offensive struggles against Kansas echoed their earlier loss to Arizona (113-100), where defense was nearly absent. Kansas, meanwhile, has been tested by losses to ranked teams but remains undefeated against unranked opponents, reinforcing their status as a Big 12 contender.
Looking Ahead
For Kansas, solidifying the starting lineup with Moore could stabilize their rotation as they face tougher Big 12 opponents like Arizona on March 8, 2025. ASU needs to address their turnover issues and improve second-half shooting to compete in the conference. Both teams are likely to make the NCAA Tournament, with Kansas holding a stronger resume (28 consecutive appearances, an NCAA record).
Conclusion
The Kansas Jayhawks’ 74-55 rout of Arizona State on January 8, 2025, was defined by a smothering defense and standout performances from Shakeel Moore and Hunter Dickinson. ASU’s Adam Miller was contained, and their turnovers proved costly. This game highlighted Kansas’ ability to adapt and dominate at home, while ASU’s offensive struggles exposed areas for improvement. As both teams navigate the Big 12, this matchup will serve as a key reference point for their postseason aspirations.
For live scores and detailed stats, check platforms like Sofascore or ESPN. Video highlights are available on YouTube and Dailymotion.
