A New Era for Sun Devil Basketball
The Sun Devil program enters the new campaign with continuity at its core, bringing back four of the five starters from the 2021‑22 season. That experience provides a solid foundation, but the team’s ceiling will hinge on how quickly the newest addition can adapt to the college game.
Freshman guard Austin Nunez arrives as a highly touted point‑guard prospect. His undersized frame belies a skill set that coaches expect to deploy heavily, especially in ball‑handling and playmaking duties. The coaching staff believes Nunez can unlock the offense and give the team a dynamic spark at the top of the lineup.
Sophomore forward Marcus Bagley is viewed as a potential NBA draft prospect, and his health will be a major factor. If he remains fully fit, his presence inside the paint could be a game‑changer; if he were to depart, coach Bobby Hurley has indicated he might shift to a smaller, more perimeter‑oriented lineup, inserting sophomore guard Jay Heath at the three‑spot to maintain versatility.
DJ Horne, who led the team in scoring with 12.5 points per game last season, brings a reliable shooting threat. However, his role has been more of a scorer than a true floor‑general, so the team will look to Nunez and other playmakers to create opportunities for the offense.
Jalen Graham has emerged as one of the most consistent contributors, averaging just under ten points per game while providing steady scoring from the forward position. His development adds depth and flexibility to the rotation.
Alonzo Gaffney’s defensive impact was highlighted by a standout performance in which he recorded five blocks in a single game, and he finished the season averaging 1.3 blocks per contest. His rim‑protecting ability remains a cornerstone of the Sun Devils’ defensive identity.
Overall, the blend of veteran leadership, incoming freshman talent, and a focus on defensive intensity sets the stage for an exciting season. The team’s success will ultimately be measured by how well these pieces mesh under Coach Bobby Hurley’s system.