Arizona State vs Hawaii: Showdown in Paradise

Big 12 Powerhouse Meets Hot Streaking Rainbow Warriors in Honolulu

The University of Hawai'i men's basketball team (4-1) looks to extend its dominant home run as it welcomes Big 12 opponent Arizona State (3-1) to the Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center on Thursday, November 20th, at 7:00 PM HT. This highly anticipated non-conference showdown marks the first meeting between the programs in 27 years and pits a surging mid-major against a Power Four team seeking its first true road test.

Hawaii's Momentum: The 'Bows Are Rolling

After a heartbreaking one-point loss to Oregon to open the season, the Rainbow Warriors have been nothing short of dominant at home. They've reeled off four consecutive victories, all at the Stan Sheriff Center, with three of those wins coming by 26 points or more. This streak has propelled them to a 4-1 record and reignited hopes of a special season under veteran head coach Eran Ganot (177-121 overall, 174-119 at UH).

The key to Hawaii's success has been stifling defense and a balanced attack. Through five games, the 'Bows lead the Big West Conference and rank 26th nationally in scoring defense, allowing just 61.6 points per game. They boast a massive rebounding margin (+12.4, ranked 36th nationally) and are drawing fouls at a high clip (29th nationally in FTA per game).

Senior center Isaac Johnson has been the engine. He's posted double-doubles in three of the last four games, including a career-high 25 points, 11 rebounds, and four made three-pointers in the OUTRIGGER Rainbow Classic championship win over Manhattan. Johnson's inside-outside prowess has been crucial, and his leadership has anchored a defense that has trailed opponents for a mere 1:23 out of its last 160 minutes of play.

Arizona State's Arrival: Sun Devils Seek Road Test

Coming off a 75-62 home victory over Georgia State, Arizona State embarks on its first road trip of the season, making a crucial stop in Honolulu before heading to the prestigious 2025 Maui Invitational. Under head coach Bobby Hurley, the Sun Devils have started strong at 3-1, looking to build on last season's challenging Big 12 campaign.

Hurley revealed a starting lineup designed to counter Hawaii's length and depth: Moe Odum (G), Bryce Ford (G), Andrija Grbovic (F), Santiago Trouet (F), and Massamba Diop (C).

Odum, a Pepperdine transfer, has been exceptional, leading the team in scoring (14.8 PPG) and assists (7.5 APG) while shooting over 40% from three. The highly-touted freshman Diop has been a revelation, averaging 14.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.5 steals, and 1.8 blocks while shooting nearly 60% from the floor and 50% from three. Expect key reserves like Marcus Adams Jr. and Allen Mukeba, both working back from injuries, to play significant minutes against the Rainbow Warriors.

The Sun Devils will heavily rely on Diop's rim protection and rebounding to combat Johnson and Hawaii's size.

Key Storylines & What to Watch

• Historic Rivalry Renewed: The series stands at 8-4 in favor of ASU, but Hawaii won the last meeting (90-73 in the 1998 NIT). This is the first game in Honolulu since 1998.
• Common Opponent: Both teams defeated Utah Tech – Hawaii won 68-62 at home on Nov. 15, while ASU won 81-66 at home on Nov. 9. How they played the Trailblazers provides a useful comparison.
• Hawaii's Home Fortress: Can the 'Bows continue their dominant start at home? A win would be their fifth straight and mark their first victory over a Power Conference team since beating Washington State in the 2022 Diamond Head Classic.
• ASU's Road Debut: How will the Sun Devils perform away from Desert Financial Arena? Their road struggles were a factor last season (3-8).
• Special Night in Paradise: The game features significant community recognition, including honoring the historic 442nd Infantry Regiment at halftime with players wearing a special "Go For Broke" patch, and recognition for active Navy sailors from the U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Prediction and Betting Lines

The betting line currently favors Hawaii by 2.5 points, with the over/under set at 147.5 points. Given Hawaii's recent defensive dominance, home-court advantage, and the emotional significance of the night, they appear to have the edge. However, ASU boasts significant talent, especially with Odum's playmaking and Diop's rim presence. Hawaii's ability to generate turnovers and limit second-chance opportunities will be critical. Expect a competitive game, but the Rainbow Warriors' momentum and defensive intensity should propel them to a hard-fought victory in front of their home crowd.

"A win over Arizona State would mark UH's first over a Power Conference team since defeating Washington State in the semifinals of the 2022 Diamond Head Classic." - University of Hawai'i Athletics