Wildcats Roar: Arizona Triumphs Over ASU in a Rivalry Shootout
On Tuesday, March 4, 2025, the atmosphere at McKale Center was electric as the Arizona Wildcats secured a hard-fought 113-100 victory over the Arizona State Sun Devils. This win not only reinforced the Wildcats’ longstanding dominance in the rivalry but also provided a crucial boost in their quest for a top-four spot in the Big 12 standings.
The game was a showcase of offensive prowess and high-energy basketball. Arizona’s offensive attack was led by Henri Veesaar, who erupted for a career-high 22 points while grabbing eight rebounds. His dynamic play set the tone early on, helping the Wildcats build an early lead that would prove insurmountable. Key contributions from Caleb Love and KJ Lewis, each chipping in 21 points, demonstrated the depth and balance of the team. With a field-goal percentage of 59% and 21 assists against only six turnovers, the Wildcats displayed precision and teamwork throughout the contest.
Arizona State, forced to contend with a severely depleted roster, struggled to keep pace. With only six scholarship players available at the start of the game and notable absences due to injuries and dismissals, the Sun Devils fought valiantly. Alston Mason emerged as the standout for ASU, recording a career-high 33 points on 10-of-17 shooting. Despite his individual brilliance, the collective challenges on the court proved too much to overcome.
Postgame, Coach Tommy Lloyd reflected on the battle-hardened performance from his team. “Defensive battle,” Lloyd remarked in a brief, candid comment during the postgame interview. While he acknowledged that the Wildcats could tighten up on defense, his primary satisfaction lay in securing the win and moving closer to a coveted tournament seed.
This victory is yet another chapter in the storied Arizona–Arizona State rivalry, a contest steeped in tradition and competitive spirit dating back over a century. With a history marked by exhilarating shootouts and memorable comebacks, each game adds to the rich tapestry of this rivalry. For the Wildcats, this win not only boosts their season record but also cements their legacy as one of the most dominant forces in the series.
As the Wildcats now prepare for a double-bye in the Big 12 tournament quarterfinals, the echoes of tonight’s triumph will undoubtedly fuel their determination for the challenges ahead. For fans and players alike, Tuesday’s game was a testament to the grit, skill, and heart that define Arizona basketball.
Check out the game highlights: