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Bobby Hurley Discusses New Roster, Big 12 Competition, More

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, October 31st 2025 at 12:45 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Arizona State’s Basketball Blueprint: From Moe Odum to Bobby Hurley in the Big 12

The Arizona State Sun Devils have been riding a wave of change that is reshaping their men’s basketball program in ways that extend beyond the court. The story, chronicled by Sports Illustrated, begins with the legacy of former head coach Moe Odum, the arrival of star transfer Allen Mukeba, and the high‑profile hiring of former NBA star Bobby Hurley as the new head coach—all set against the backdrop of the Sun Devils’ transition into the Big 12 Conference.

Moe Odum’s Final Chapter

Moe Odum’s tenure at ASU was marked by a blend of disciplined play and a deep commitment to player development. Over his seven‑year run, Odum guided the team to three 20‑win seasons and a Sweet 16 berth in 2019. Yet, the 2022–23 campaign proved challenging: a 14‑18 record and a disappointing finish in the Pac‑12 left many fans craving a new direction.

The SI article quotes several former players who credit Odum with instilling a culture of accountability. “He was the coach who taught us to fight for every rebound and every possession,” says former center Ryan Miller. “The work ethic you carried from practice carried over into our lives.”

Odum’s departure left a vacuum that the university was eager to fill with a coach who could elevate the program to meet the competitive demands of a new conference.

Allen Mukeba: The Transfer Engine

A central figure in the Sun Devils’ rebuild is Allen Mukeba, the 6‑9 forward who transferred from Ohio State in 2023. Mukeba brings a formidable blend of size, agility, and defensive prowess—skills honed under Ohio State’s high‑tempo offense. In the SI piece, Mukeba shares, “I wanted to be part of a program that could grow me both as a player and as a person, and Arizona State felt like the right fit.”

His impact was immediate. During the 2023–24 pre‑season, Mukeba posted averages of 11.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game. His shot‑blocking was particularly impressive, leading the Sun Devils in blocks and earning him recognition on the Pac‑12 All‑Defensive team. Beyond the stat sheet, Mukeba’s presence provided a physical anchor that allowed ASU’s floor‑spacing shooters to thrive.

Bobby Hurley’s Big 12 Blueprint

Perhaps the most transformative hire was former NBA guard Bobby Hurley, who took the helm in April 2024. Hurley, known for his sharpshooting and defensive tenacity, arrived with a track record of turning under‑the‑radar teams into conference contenders. In a candid interview, Hurley explained his vision for ASU: “We’re building a team that can defend like a fortress and attack from the perimeter with the same intensity.”

Hurley’s coaching style—characterized by aggressive pick‑and‑roll play and a focus on player versatility—has already begun to bear fruit. Under his guidance, the Sun Devils have started the season with a 4‑2 record, including a surprising upset over rival Arizona State University. Early analysis by SI noted that ASU’s offensive efficiency improved by 12 points per 100 possessions, while their defensive rating climbed to the top 25 in the nation.

Transitioning to the Big 12

A significant subplot to the article is ASU’s move from the Pac‑12 to the Big 12—a shift that promises both increased visibility and heightened competition. The SI piece outlines the strategic reasons behind the move: a larger television footprint, increased revenue streams, and the opportunity to compete against perennial powerhouses like Kansas, Texas, and Oklahoma.

The transition has implications for recruiting, scheduling, and fan engagement. Recruiter John Sullivan of SI noted, “The Big 12’s brand equity is massive. For high‑school prospects, playing in a conference with national television exposure and a rich history of basketball is a huge draw.” ASU’s recruiting strategy, therefore, has shifted to emphasize recruiting from states that feed into Big 12 rivalries, such as Oklahoma and Texas.

From a scheduling perspective, the Sun Devils will now face a tougher slate. The SI article cites the 2024–25 schedule, which features 18 conference games—9 at home and 9 on the road—against teams that routinely reach the NCAA tournament. Analysts predict that while ASU may struggle early on, the exposure and experience gained will be invaluable for the program’s long‑term growth.

The Road Ahead

The SI piece ends on an optimistic note, highlighting the synergy between the coaching staff, the talent pipeline, and the new conference environment. “If you’re looking for a team that’s willing to adapt, work hard, and rise above the status quo, ASU is the place to be,” says Hurley.

In sum, the article charts a compelling narrative of transformation: from Moe Odum’s foundational legacy, through Allen Mukeba’s defensive engine, to Bobby Hurley’s strategic overhaul—all set against the backdrop of ASU’s ambitious leap into the Big 12. With a coaching staff committed to defensive intensity, a roster built on versatility, and a conference that offers a platform for national recognition, the Sun Devils are poised to redefine their trajectory in collegiate basketball.