THE GAME: Sun Devil WBB (10-14, 2-10 Pac-12) vs. Washington (13-10, 3-9 Pac-12)
WHEN: Friday at 6 p.m. MST
WHERE: Desert Financial Arena • Tempe, Ariz.
WATCH: Pac-12 Arizona
RADIO: KDUS AM 1060
LIVE STATS: Click here
PURCHASE TICKETS: Click here
UP NEXT
The Sun Devil women's basketball team (10-14, 2-10 Pac-12) begins the final third of Pac-12 play this weekend when it hosts Washington on Friday (6 p.m. MST) and Washington State on Sunday (12 p.m. MST).
On Friday the squad is celebrating Black History Month and the first 500 fans will receive an exclusive poster of Sun Devil Women's Basketball greats.
The Washington State match-up is Sunday Funday with all kids 12 and under receiving FREE admission. Bring the kids and join us as we celebrate National Girls & Women in Sports Day and our annual Pink Game for Breast Cancer Awareness.
SETTING THE SCENE
After playing seven of their last nine contests on the road, the Sun Devils will conclude the 2023-24 regular season slate with four of their final six contests at home starting with this weekend's games. After this weekend, the Sun Devils will travel to the Bay Area for rematches with Cal and No. 3 Stanford. They will then conclude the regular season with home rematches against No. 9 UCLA and No. 10 USC.
Like their last four games of the season, this weekend's games are also rematches of games played earlier this season. ASU captured its first win in league play at Washington on Jan. 21. To get the win, ASU to overcome a Washington squad that had lost only once at home (coming into the game) and came into the game first in the Pac-12 and seventh in the nation in scoring defense (52.4 ppg).
Jalyn Brown (11-20 FGs, 4-5 3FGs, 8-8 FTs) posted her second 30-point game of the season, finishing with 34 points (scored 35 vs. Colorado on Jan. 7). ASU's 73 points represented the most given up by UW (at the time). Furthermore, ASU tied a Washington opponent high (at the time) by hitting eight triples. ASU was 61.5 percent (8-13) from downtown against the Pac-12's top team/No. 13 in the nation in 3-point FG percentage defense (24.8 percent coming into the game).
Prior to its win at Washington, the Sun Devils lost at WSU 79-64. Brown scored a game-high 21 points and freshman Mallory Miller added a career-high 15 points and a game- and career-high eight rebounds. Jaddan Simmons (13 points, seven rebounds, game-high seven assists, game-high five steals) and Isadora Sousa (career-high 12 points, seven rebounds) combined for 25 points for the Sun Devils, who were on relatively even terms with the Cougars in scoring (edged WSU 58-57) over the final three quarters after falling behind 22-6 in the first quarter.
The last time it was home, ASU had its finest offensive performance in recent memory in a 76-71 win over Cal (Jan. 28). Five players scored in double figures led by Brown, who had a game-high 21 points to help ASU accumulate its season-high point total in conference play. Simmons scored 15 points to go with a game-high four steals; Journey Thompson (game high-tying eight rebounds) and Trayanna Crisp had 13 points each and Sousa scored all 12 of her points via the long ball (4-4 3FGs).
ASU was remarkable throughout the game on the offensive end as it shot 54.8 pct, its highest FG pct. since shooting 56 pct vs. SIU on Nov. 24, 2018. It was its highest percentage in a Pac-12 game since a 55.6-percent effort vs. Arizona on February 16, 2018. On top of those feats, ASU set a school record for 3-point FG pct (minimum of 10 attempts) as it hit 80 pct (8-10) of its attempts.
WATCH/LISTEN
Friday's game can be seen on Pac-12 Arizona (Cindy Brunson, Julie Rousseau). The game can also be heard on KDUS AM 1060. Veteran broadcaster and the state of Arizona's 2010 & 2019 Broadcaster of the Year and a finalist for the 2023 award, Jeff Munn is in his 20th season as the voice of ASU women's basketball. He will be joined by former Sun Devil head coach Maura McHugh.
JALYN BROWN ASCENDING TO SUPERSTAR STATUS
• As the season has progressed, Jalyn Brown has evolved into one of the top performers in the Pac-12. In league games, Brown is currently 2nd in the Pac-12 in scoring (21.7 ppg) & 6th in scoring in all games (17.7 ppg).
• Brown has scored in double figures 19 times, including 17 times in the last 18 games. During that 18-game stretch, she is leading the team in scoring (19.9 ppg), 3FGs per game (1.6) and free throws made (76), attempted (93) and FT percentage (81.7), is second in 3FG pct. (37.8) and minutes (36.8 mpg) and 3rd in assists (1.6 apg).
• In contest vs. No. 5 Colorado on Jan. 7, Brown scored 35 points, the most points by a Sun Devil in the 21st century.
• Added a second 30-point game, scoring 34 points (11-20 FGs, 4-5 3FGs, 8-8 FTs) in ASU's first Pac-12 win at Washington (Jan. 21).
MOST POINTS IN A GAME BY A SUN DEVIL SINCE 2000
35 - Jalyn Brown vs. Colorado (1/7/24)
34 - Jalyn Brown at Washington (1/21/24)
34 - Jade Loville at San Diego (12/18/21)
33 - Jade Loville vs. Oregon St. (2/4/22)
32 - Kylan Loney vs. Arizona (1/31/04)
30 - Kianna Ibis at Utah (12/31/17)
30 - Amanda Levens vs St. Peter's (11/17/01)
MOST 20-POINT GAMES BY A SUN DEVIL SINCE 2000
15 - Tyi Skinner (2022-23)
12 - Amanda Levens (2001-02)
11 - Jalyn Brown (2023-24)
9 - Jade Loville (2021-22)
8 - Kianna Ibis (2018-19)
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
• As of Feb. 15, 2024, ASU is ranked in the top half of the Pac-12 in FT attempts per game (1st/18.67), is 4th in offensive rebounds per game (11.7), fewest turnovers per game (13.2/33rd in the nation), 5th in FTs made per game (12.79) and turnover margin (+2.33) and 6th in turnovers forced per game (15.54) and steals per game (7.5).
• Individually, Jaddan Simmons is ranked 20th in the nation in minutes per game (36.33), 43rd in FTs made (99) and 48th in FT attempts (126).
• ASU has had 6 players lead/tie for team lead in scoring: Brown (12x), Simmons (5x), Kadidia Toure (4x), Crisp (4x), Treasure Hunt (1x) and Journey Thompson (1). Brown's career-high 35 points vs. No. 5 Colorado (Jan. 7), is the highest single-game total by a Sun Devil this season.
• In the rebounding department, 9 players have led/tied for the team lead: Thompson (10x), Simmons (5x), Maggie Besselink (4x), Toure (3x), Mallory Miller (2x), Sandra Magolico (2x), Brown (2x), Isadora Souza (2x) and Hunt (1x). Toure's 14-rebound game vs. San Francisco (Nov. 13) represents the most rebounds by a Sun Devil this season.
• ASU has averaged only 12.0 turnovers (+2.2 turnover margin) in its last 18 games. It has had 11 or fewer turnovers 8x during that stretch.
• Crisp has scored in double figures in all but 6 games. In her 5 games prior to contest at UCLA (Feb. 11), she played all 200 mins (led team), 15.4 ppg, 1.4 spg (led team), 3.6 rpg (2nd on team).
• On Dec. 20, Simmons (now with 1096 points) became the 25th Sun Devil to score more than 1000 points. Simmons played all 80 minutes on Washington road trip – at WSU (Jan. 19) & at UW (Jan. 21) – and averaged 11.0 ppg, 6.5 rpg, 5.0 apg, 3.0 spg & 87.5 from FT line (14-16).
• Since returning from injury, Isadora Sousa has been one of the team's top 3FG shooters: 12-23/52.2 pct.
• Thompson has averaged 8.0 rebounds in ASU's last 5 games.
SERIES NOTES VS. WASHINGTON
• This will be the first time ASU and UW will play two regular season games since 2019-20. In 2021-22, ASU's games vs. the Washington schools (scheduled to be played in Tempe) and the 2021 games vs. the Washington schools (scheduled to be played in Washington) were postponed and eventually canceled due to Covid-19 protocols.
• Washington won the three meetings, 50-35 in 2021 (in Tempe), 74-69 in 2022 (in Seattle) and 55-53 last season (in Tempe).
• With its win last month, 24 of 34 contests since 2005-06.
• In 2020, ASU won 67-50 in Seattle and 72-68 in Tempe. In the latter win, former Sun Devil Reili Richardson led ASU with 17 points and added six assists to become ASU's all-time leader in career assists.
• In 2019, the teams had their only scheduled contest canceled by a snowstorm in Seattle.
SEASON SUMMARY
• ASU has had a pair of season-best three-game winning streaks in 2023-24. It started 3-0 after home wins over UTSA (70-55/Nov. 6), Montana State (75-62/Nov. 10) & San Francisco (77-69/Nov. 13). In the first half of its first three wins, ASU averaged 45.3 points & hit 49.5 pct of its shots. In the win vs. UTSA, ASU tied last season's highest point total in a half on its way to a 49-23 halftime lead. Against Montana State (Nov. 30), ASU scored 30 points in the first quarter, representing the third time it has scored 30 or more points in a quarter under head coach Natasha Adair.
• In its first loss at Grambling State (Nov. 16), ASU scored 32 points and shot 38 pct. in the first half while allowing the Tigers to score 45 points. Down by as many as 17, ASU tied the game at 67-67 before the Tigers hit game-winning 3-pointer in final seconds.
• ASU responded with a 72-40 win over Idaho State. The Bengals' final point total represented the fewest given up by ASU since a 49-40 win over VCU on November 27, 2020.
• After dropping an 84-42 decision to Texas in its first game at the Virgin Islands Paradise Jam (Nov. 23), ASU once again rebounded with a 3-game winning streak. Less than 24 hours after the setback to Texas, ASU had to face a South Florida squad (Nov. 24) that entered the game among the Top 50 teams in the nation in rebounding margin (+10.8). ASU rose to the challenge and outrebounded the Bulls 38-32 in its 66-49 win. In its 77-69 win over High Point (Nov. 25), ASU shot 50 percent for the game, the first time it shot 50 percent or higher since a win at San Diego on Dec. 18, 2021. Brown had her first 20-point game, while Hunt just missed a double-double with season highs in points (19) and rebounds (game-high 8 boards).
• ASU made it three straight wins after a 76-66 triumph over Pacific (Dec. 1). Simmons scored 17 of her career-high 26 points in the 2nd half, including 8 points in the final 94 seconds while Brown contributed 20 points for the second straight game.
• The Sun Devils nearly came back from 14 down in the 4th quarter (got within 4 points 2x) before falling to Grand Canyon, 66-59 on Dec. 8. Simmons (20 points), Crisp (18 points) and Brown (16 points) scored all but 5 of ASU's points.
• ASU dropped consecutive games for the first time this season after falling to Arizona 91-52 in the Pac-12 opener for both teams.
• ASU got back on the winning track scoring a season high in an 80-76 win over Fresno State as part of the Jerry Colangelo Hall of Fame Series played at Footprint Series in Phoenix. Toure scored 12 of her career high-tying 22 points in the second half while Brown continued her streak of scoring in double figures in games she has started (eight) with 20 points. Crisp scored 12 points while Simmons and Thompson (career-high four steals) scored 10 points each. ASU shot 49 percent for the game, its second-highest mark of the season. Simmons, who went over 1,000 career points in the fourth quarter of the win, set a career high with eight assists and hit a pair of free throws with six seconds remaining to help clinch the win.
• The short-handed Sun Devils nearly came back from a double-digit deficit but in the end did not have enough to get over the hump in 65-55 loss to Santa Clara (Dec. 30). Crisp and (12 points), Simmons (11 points) and Toure (10 points) led the way for the Sun Devils (8-5), who were without key contributors Maggie Besselink and Treasure Hunt. The Sun Devils trailed by as many as 12 in the first half before transforming their defense into a riddle Santa Clara had no answers for during the latter stages of the first half and for the entire third quarter. The net result was a game tied at 44-44 entering the fourth quarter. Santa Clara outscored ASU 21-11 in the 4th Q.
• ASU came through with one of its most inspired defensive efforts of the season in holding one of the most prolific offenses in the country more than 30 points below its scoring average. Unfortunately, ASU was not able to do enough on the offensive end in a 58-41 loss to No. 15 Utah (Jan. 5).
• Brown scored 35 points, the most by a Sun Devil in the 21st century in ASU's 81-68 loss to No. 5 Colorado on Jan. 7.
• The Sun Devils dropped both of their contests at the Oregon schools: 65-53 at Oregon and 92-55 at Oregon State. Brown led the team in scoring, averaging 15.5 ppg and knocking down 83 percent of her free throws (10-12) in the two games. Also providing major contributions was Thompson, who averaged 14.0 points and 4.5 rebounds, the second time this season Thompson scored in double figures in consecutive games.
• After falling at WSU 79-64 (Jan. 19), ASU captured its first Pac-12 win at Washington, 73-65 on Jan. 21. Brown posted her second 30-point game of the season, finishing with 34 points to lead the Sun Devils to the win.
• ASU came through with its best offensive performance in recent memory in a 76-71 win over Cal on Jan. Five players scored in double figures led by Jalyn Brown, who had a game-high 21 points to help ASU accumulate its season-high point total in conference play.
ASU was remarkable throughout the game on the offensive end as it shot 54.8 pct, its highest FG pct. since shooting 56 pct vs. SIU on Nov. 24, 2018. It was its highest percentage in a Pac-12 game since a 55.6-percent effort vs. Arizona on February 16, 2018. On top of those feats, ASU set a school record for 3-point FG pct (minimum of 10 attempts) as it hit 80 pct (8-10) of its attempts.
• In a game in which the final score belied the closeness of the game, ASU came up short at Arizona, 63-52 on Feb. 4. Crisp (15 points, five rebounds) led the Sun Devils, who were looking to win back-to-back road games in league play for the first time since January of 2020. Any hope the Sun Devils had of squaring this year's edition of the Territorial Cup Series was extinguished less than four minutes into the final period as the Wildcats added on to the four-point spurt at the end of the third quarter by scoring the first nine points of the final one to extend out to a 54-41 lead. The Wildcats were never threatened after what ended up being an 18-2 run that put ASU into a 59-43 hole with under four minutes remaining.
• ASU ended its run of nine games on the road with contests at No. 9 USC and No. 10 UCLA. At USC, after trailing by as many as 19 points, ASU whittled USC's lead down to 10 after Toure's jumper with 17 seconds left in the first half. The Sun Devils got even closer, trimming USC's lead to single digits after Crisp's 3-pointer in the opening moments of the third quarter made the count 38-31. As fast as the Sun Devils got back into game, they lost their grasp of it just as quickly as the Trojans – in fewer than three minutes – reclaimed a firm grip of the contest by outscoring ASU 10-2 to take a commanding lead once again, 50-33, with 6:14 remaining. The Sun Devils would cut the lead to 11 once more but were not able to get any closer... At UCLA, after getting outscored 17-10 in the first quarter, the Sun Devils put together their best sequence of the game as they outscored UCLA 7-2 over the first six-plus minutes of the second quarter to pull within two points, 19-17. If there was a negative during the successful stretch it was the Sun Devils not being able to score more points while the Bruins were struggling with their offense. ASU's inability to do more damage on the scoreboard was magnified when the Bruins finally found their footing and closed the half with a 9-2 run to take a 28-19 lead at the half. UCLA's success carried over into the third quarter as they opened the second half with a 17-6 run to more than double their halftime lead, 45-25 with 5:48 remaining in the third quarter.
ASU WITHOUT ALL-PAC-12 STANDOUT TYI SKINNER IN 2023-24
Although the Sun Devil women's basketball team's overall health is a 180-degree difference from last season, the squad was dealt a tremendous blow when Natasha Adair announced Oct. 4, 2023, that senior guard Tyi Skinner would miss the 2023-24 season due to a knee injury.
Skinner, who last season earned All-Pac-12 honorable mention honors from the league's coaches and All-Pac-12 recognition from media who cover the league, quickly established herself as one of top scorers in the Pac-12 and one of the most exciting players in the nation to watch in her first season in Tempe.
In 2022-23, Skinner scored 20 or more points 15 times, including a career-high 29 points on two occasions. A starter in all 28 games, Skinner went on to average 19.3 points per game, the most by a Sun Devil since the 1988-89 season. She concluded her first campaign in the Maroon and Gold among the leaders in the Pac-12 in points per game (19.3/2nd/27th in the nation), 3-pointers per game (2.43 per game/2nd), minutes per game (36.59/3rd/29th in the nation), free throws made (79/3rd) and attempted (91/4th), steals per game (1.71/5th), 3-point FG percentage (34.7/6th) and free throw percentage (78.1/8th).
PLAYER NOTES
#1 • Kadidia Toure • F • 6-3 • So. • Silver Spring, Md.
• Transferred to ASU in 2023 (played @James Madison as freshman).
• Has played in every game (7 starts) and leads the team in FG pct. (45.6), is 2nd in O-rebs (1.7 rpg), 4th in overall rebounds (4.0 rpg) and 5th in scoring (6.3 ppg).
• Pulled down 6 rebounds, her individual high in a Pac-12 game, at Arizona (Feb. 4).
• Consecutive games vs. Fresno State (Dec. 20) and vs. Santa Clara (Dec. 30): Led team in scoring (16.0 ppg) and rebs (6.5 rpg). Tied career high (22 points) vs. Fresno State.
• During earlier 3-game stretch (game Nos. 2-4), averaged 19.0 ppg & 9.3 rebs per game... Posted first career double-double with career highs in points (22) & rebounds (14) vs. San Francisco (Nov. 13).
• Four-year varsity player for Our Lady of Good Counsel (Olney, Md.). As a senior in 2022, the league's player of the year averaged 14 points, 13 rebounds and four blocks on her way to WCAC Player of the Year honors and first-team All-Met recognition.
#2 • Jaddan Simmons • G • 5-9 • Sr. • Houston, Texas
• Has started 100 of 101 career games (10.9 ppg avg./1096 career points/18th all time).
• Currently leads ASU in FTs attempted (126), made (99), assists (3.3 apg), steals (1.9 spg) and minutes (36.20 mpg), is 3rd in scoring (10.5 ppg), overall rebounds (4.3 rpg) and O-rebs (1.4 rpg).
• Connected on season-high 10 FTs 2x (vs. UTSA/vs. Pacific).
• Played 38 or more minutes in more than half (13x) of team's games.
• Has grabbed season-high 7 rebounds 5x this season, had 3 or more steals 8x this season (season-best 5 vs. GCU and at WSU) and 5 or more assists 3x (career-high 8 assists vs. Fresno State).
• Played all 80 minutes on Washington road trip – at WSU (Jan. 19) and at UW (Jan. 21) – and averaged 11.0 ppg, 6.5 rpg, 5.0 apg, 3.0 spg and connected on 87.5 percent of her free throws (14-16).
• Scored most points since Dec. 8 after accounting for 15 points, 4 steals and 3 steals in win over Cal (Jan. 28).
• In the month of December (vs. Pacific, vs. GCU, vs. Arizona, vs. Fresno State, vs. Santa Clara), averaged 15.6 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 2.4 apg, 2.4 spg, 6.8 FT attempts. In ASU's win over Fresno State (Dec. 20), Simmons had a career-high 8 assists with zero turnovers.
• Scored career-high 26 points in ASU's win over Pacific (Dec. 1) and was named to Briann January Classic All-Tournament Team.
• First 4 games of season: Averaged 16.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 3.8 apg, 3.0 spg and shot 56 pct 3FG (5-9) and 90 pct (27-30) from the line.
• Superb all-around effort at WSU (Jan. 19) included 13 points, 7 rebounds, game-high 7 assists and game-high 5 steals.
#3 • Tyi Skinner • G • 5-5 • Sr. • Washington, D.C.
• Was announced on October 4, 2023 that Tyi Skinner will miss the 2023-24 season due to a knee injury.
• Made an immediate impact in her first season as a Sun Devil, earning All Pac-12 recognition from media that cover the league and Pac-12 HM honors from the league's coaches for a season in which she started all 28 games and averaged the most points per game (19.2) in a season since 1988-89.
• Scored in double figures in 25/28 games, including 15x w/20 or more points & finished 2nd in the Pac-12/27th in the nation in ppg.
#4 • Trayanna Crisp • G • 5-8 • So. • Goodyear, Ariz.
• Has played in 52 career games (28 starts).
• Has played in every game this season (21 starts) and has scored in double figures in all but 6 games. In two of those games – vs. Utah (Jan. 5) and at WSU (Jan. 19) – didn't return after getting injured in 1st Q.
• Tied for team lead in 3FGs per game (1.4), is 2nd in scoring (11.3 ppg), assists (2.3 apg), steals (1.4 spg) and minutes (32:28 mpg) and 3rd in FT pct. (77.1).
• In her 5 games prior to contest at UCLA (Feb. 11), played all 200 mins (led team), 15.4 ppg, 1.4 spg (led team), 3.6 rpg (2nd on team).
• Has played all 40 minutes in half of team's Pac-12 games (6/12).
• Scored 17 points and had team-high 5 assists at USC (Feb. 16).
• Led ASU with 15 points and tied career high in rebounds (5) for the 3rd time this season at Arizona (Feb. 4).
• Scored 11 of 16 points in 2nd half of ASU's win at UW (Jan. 21).
• Five games prior to contest vs. Utah: Averaged 13.6 ppg (2nd on team) and tied for team lead in steals (2.2 spg).
• Scored a then-career high 17 points 2x in ASU's first 7 games and surpassed that in 10th game with 18 vs. Grand Canyon (Dec. 8).
• Averaged 14.3 ppg in earlier 4-game stretch (included pair of career-high 17-point efforts vs. Idaho State and vs. South Florida). Also had career-high 6 assists (0 TOs) vs. Idaho State.
#10 • Marina Radocaj • G/F • 6-2 • Fr. • Richmond, British Columbia
• Earned spots on Canada's U16 and U17 teams.
• Member of the 2021 U16 Canadian Team that placed second at FIBA Americas. Radocaj averaged 9.2 points and 5.0 rebounds per game in the six games she played (all starts).
• Played in 5 games at 2022 FIBA U17 Women's Basketball World Cup.
• Has played in 6 games for ASU this season.. Hit one of ASU's nine 3-pointers in season-opening win over UTSA (Nov. 6).
#11 • Maggie Besselink • G/F • 6-3 • Sr. • Kingston, Ontario
• After missing the 2022-23 season due to injury, made her return to the floor in 2023-24.
• Played in 12 games in 2023-24 before suffering season-ending injury at Washington State (Jan. 19).
• Played and started in first 11 games. At the time of injury, was 2nd on the team in rebounds per game (4.6 rpg) and 4th in O-rebounds per game (1.3 rpg).
• Missed six games due to injury (starting with contest vs. Fresno State on Dec. 20)... Returned to action at Washington State (Jan. 19) and was limited to 7 minutes before leaving the game due to injury.
• Besselink, who had not played in a game since Feb. 6, 2022, was not only in the starting lineup in the season opener, but also played a major role in igniting ASU's offense after hitting back-to-back triples in the first quarter vs. UTSA (Nov. 6).
• Scored 11 points and grabbed a game-high 10 rebounds to post her second career double-double at Grambling State (Nov. 16).
• Added 10 points and career-high 3 steals vs. Idaho State (Nov. 19).
#12 • Treasure Hunt • G • 6-2 • Sr. • Chattanooga, Tenn.
• In her first season as a Sun Devil, played & started in 27 games and averaged 34.1 minutes, 11.3 points and 6.1 rebounds. Also made 28 3-pointers and had 22 blocks and 25 steals. Had career-high 24 points vs. Arizona on Jan. 22, 2023, and had career-best 15 rebounds at New Mexico on Nov. 20, 2022.
• Including 2 seasons at Kentucky, started 60 of 83 career games.
• Was announced on January 12 that she would not be playing due to personal reasons. Last game played was vs. Fresno State (Dec. 20). Return is TBD.
• Played in 11 of first 12 games (3 starts) and was averaging 6.9 ppg a the time it was announced she would not be playing.
• Was named to Reef Division All-Tournament Team of the Paradise Jam (Nov. 23-25) after averaging 14.7 ppg while shooting 56 percent (19-34 FGs), including 50 percent (5-10) from long distance, in ASU's 3 contests... Posted season highs in points (19) and rebounds (8) in win over High Point.
#13 • Sandra Magolico • F • 6-2 • Jr. • Maputo, Mozambique
• Transferred to ASU after playing two seasons at New Mexico CC.
• Has played in all but 4 games (vs. Santa Clara/at WSU/vs. Cal) this season (3 starts). Earned starting spot during ASU's time competing at the Paradise Jam: vs. South Florida on Nov. 24 (scored 8 points, led ASU with 7 boards and tied for team lead with 3 steals) and vs. High Point on Nov. 25 (4 points and 5 rebounds).
• In 2019, competed for the Mozambique national team, playing in nine games and averaged 11.0 minutes per game.
• Started 28/30 games in 2022-23, leading New Mexico JC to a 26-6 record and a Round of 16 finish in the NJCAA WBB Championship.
#21 • Hanna Miller • F • 6-2 • So. • Aberdeen, S.D.
• The sister of freshman Sun Devil Mallory Miller, transferred to ASU from Dodge City CC (Dodge City, Kan.) where she played in 23 games (3 starts) and averaged 11.3 minutes per game.
• As a senior in HS, teamed with Mallory to lead Aberdeen Christian to a 21-5 record and a berth in the Class B girls basketball tournament.
• Has played in 3 games and accounted for first points of career (4/1-1 3FG/1-2 FTs) in win vs. Idaho State (Nov. 19).
#22 • Journey Thompson • F • 6-3 • So. • McMurray, Pa.
• Played in 13 games (3 starts) as a freshman before having season prematurely come to an end due to injury.
• Has played in every game this season (20 starts/started last 16 games) and leads the team in rebounds (5.2 rpg), offensive rebounds (2.2 rpg) and blocks (0.6 bpg), is 3rd in steals (1.0 spg) and 5th in scoring (6.1 ppg).
• Has led/tied for team lead in rebs 10x and scored in double figures 8x this season.
• Has pulled down 7 or more rebounds 7x and has had multiple steals 7x.
• Pulled down career-high 13 rebounds vs. Stanford (Jan. 26) and followed that with 40-minute effort vs. Cal (Jan. 28) in which she scored 13 points (6-12 FGs) to go with 8 boards and 3 assists.
• Connected on half her shots (6-12 FGs) and scored 12 points vs. Oregon (Jan. 12) and followed that with career-high 16 points and 5 rebounds at Oregon State (Jan. 14).
• Scored 13 points and grabbed 12 rebounds for ASU's first double-double of the season in win vs. Montana State (Nov. 10).
• Scored 12 points in her first start of the season vs. San Francisco (Nov. 13) and had another 12-point outing vs. Idaho State (Nov. 19).
• Produced high-quality game in Paradise Jam finale vs. High Point on Nov. 25: 11 points (5-6 FGs) and 8 rebounds and scored 6 points to go with 8 rebounds, 2 blocks and 2 steals vs. Pacific (Dec. 1).
#23 • Jalyn Brown • G • 6-1 • So. • Baltimore, Md.
• Transferred to ASU in from Louisville is 2023.
• As the season has progressed, Jalyn Brown has evolved into one of the top performers in the Pac-12. In league games, Brown is currently 2nd in the Pac-12 in scoring (21.7 ppg) & 6th in scoring in all games (17.7 ppg).
• Has scored in double figures 19 times, including 17 times in the last 18 games. During that 18-game stretch, she is leading the team in scoring (19.9 ppg), 3FGs per game (1.6) and free throws made (76), attempted (93) and FT percentage (81.7), is second in 3FG pct. (37.8) and minutes (36.8 mpg) and 3rd in assists (1.6 apg).
• Has played all 40 minutes in 8 of ASU's Pac-12 games.
• In contest vs. No. 5 Colorado on Jan. 7, scored 35 points, most by a Sun Devil in the 21st century and the second-highest total by a player this season in a Pac-12 game (as of Jan. 20).
• Posted her 2nd 30-point game, scoring 34 points (11-20 FGs, 4-5 3FGs, 8-8 FTs) in ASU's first Pac-12 win at Washington (Jan. 21).
• Had tremendous Sun Devil debut: Scored 16 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in ASU's season-opening win vs. UTSA (Nov. 6). Followed that with an 11-point outing vs. Montana State (Nov. 10).
• Missed games vs. San Francisco (Nov. 13) & at Grambling State (Nov. 16) before returning in reserve role vs. Idaho State (Nov. 19).
• Was named to Reef Division All-Tournament Team of the Paradise Jam (Nov. 23-25) after averaging a team-high 17.0 ppg while hitting 54 percent of her shots (13-24) in ASU's two wins. Against South Florida (Nov. 24), scored 10 of 14 points & hit both of her 3-pointers during a game-changing 3rd quarter in which ASU outscored the Bulls 24-6… Added a game-high 20 points in ASU's win over High Point (Nov. 25).
• Scored 11 of 20 points in 1st quarter vs. Pacific (Dec. 1) and was named to Briann January Classic All-Tournament Team.
• Scored 16 points vs. Grand Canyon (Dec. 8) and followed that with 19 points and career-high 8 rebounds vs. Arizona (Dec. 17), career high-tying 20 points vs. Fresno State (Dec. 20) and career-high 4 steals vs. Santa Clara (Dec. 30).
• Scored 21 points (6-12 FGs, 3-3 3FGs, 6-6 FTs) and played all 40 minutes in win over Cal (Jan. 28).
• Averaged 24.5 points in contests at USC (24 points/Feb. 9) and at UCLA (25 points/Feb. 11)
#24 • Mallory Miller • F • 6-4 • Fr. • Aberdeen, S.D.
• The sister of ASU guard Hanna Miller, Mallory was named a KELOLAND Media Group All-Star Girls Basketball Player of the Year finalist and nominated Miss Basketball 2023 for the state of South Dakota after averaging 18.5 points, 9.5 rebounds and 2.7 assists.
• Led Wolsey-Wessington to a 22-3 record an appearance in the state semifinals (its first appearance in the state tournament) and the state's top seed in 2023.
• As a junior, teamed with sister Hanna to help Aberdeen Christian to a 21-5 record & a berth in the Class B girls basketball tournament.
• Has played in 20 contests and is averaging 10.9 minutes per game.
• Tied for team lead in rebs (7) & had 4 points vs. Idaho State (Nov. 19).
• Best game of season to date came at WSU (Jan. 19): career highs in scoring (15 points), rebounds (8) and minutes (30).
#25 • Adison Novosel • G • 5-11 • Jr. • Richfield, Ohio
• Has played in 14 games (10.2 mins per game) for ASU this season.
• All six of her 3-pointers came in 5-game stretch.
• Logged a season-high 30 minutes and knocked down season-high 3 triples vs. No. 15 Utah (Jan. 5).
• Transferred to ASU in 2023 after playing first two seasons at Saint Francis University where she appeared in 35 contests (25 starts).
• After appearing in seven games off the bench as a freshman, started 25 of 28 games in 2022-23.
• As a sophomore, led Saint Francis with 29 triples and posted career highs in points (12) and 3-pointers (4) vs. Central Connecticut State (Jan. 28).
#30 • Morasha Wiggins • G • 6-0 • Jr. • Kalamazoo, Mich.
• Transferred to ASU after playing her freshman season (2021-22) at North Carolina.
• Ranked 18th in the ESPNW Class of 2021 rankings, Wiggins was expected to be an impact player for the Sun Devils before suffering a preseason injury that forced her to miss the entire 2022-23 campaign. At the time of her 2023-24 injury, was averaging 12.6 minutes per game and was shooting 50 percent from the floor (6-12 FGs).
• Played in 6 games in 2023-24 before prematurely having her season end due to knee injury.
• Played 23 minutes and scored 8 points and hit all 4 FTs in her Sun Devil debut vs. San Francisco (Nov. 13).
#44 • Isadora Sousa • G • 6-0 • Grad. • Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Has played in 43 career games (19 starts) in her 3 seasons with ASU.
• Has worked hard to come back from injury each of her three seasons and has proven to be an effective performer when on the floor.
• Has started 12 of 13 games she has played this season and has connected on 52.2 percent of 3FGs (12-23).
• Scored all of her career-high 12 points via the long ball (4-4 3FGs) in ASU's win over Cal (Jan. 28).
• Scored 10 points and had career-high steals (3) vs. No. 5 Colorado (Jan. 7).
• In 2022-23, had the second-highest field goal percentage on the team, shooting 44.8%.
• Missed first 10 games due to injury before playing vs. Arizona (Dec. 17). Did not play vs. Fresno State (Dec. 20) but started ASU's game vs. Santa Clara (Dec. 30) and scored 7 points and had 3 rebounds in 19 minutes.
• Grabbed 6 rebounds at UCLA (Feb. 11).
RECAPPING THE 2022-23 SEASON
Despite a spate of unlucky injuries to key personnel, the Sun Devils had several noteworthy accomplishments during Adair's inaugural season in Tempe. The accomplishments included...
• Starting 5-0 for the first time since 2002-03.
• Finishing the season No. 2 in the Pac-12 and 10th in the nation in fewest turnovers per game (12.3). Only ASU's 2017-18 squad averaged fewer turnovers per game (11.7) in a season.
• Even with all its injuries, ASU nearly pulled off three Top 25 upsets in the season's final five games: vs. No. 21 Colorado (62-70), vs. No. 4 Utah (69-74) and vs. No. 19 UCLA (70-81-OT) in the first round of the Pac-12 Tournament. After trailing the Bruins by as many as 19 points in the third quarter, the Sun Devils staged a furious rally to take a two-point lead in regulation before falling in overtime. The win would have been ASU's biggest comeback in school history.
• In their 75-73 win at Oregon State, the Sun Devils overcame their second-largest deficit in school history (17 points). The victory was also No. 175 of Adair's career.
• Individually, Sun Devil guards Jaddan Simmons (Pac-12 All-Defense honorable mention) and Tyi Skinner (All-Pac-12 honorable mention) comprised one of the most talented backcourts in the country. Both players earned Pac-12 honors as voted on by the league's head coaches. Skinner, who finished second in the Pac-12 and 27th in the nation in scoring (19.2 ppg), was also named to the media's 15-member All-Pac-12 team.
WHEN: Friday at 6 p.m. MST
WHERE: Desert Financial Arena • Tempe, Ariz.
WATCH: Pac-12 Arizona
RADIO: KDUS AM 1060
LIVE STATS: Click here
PURCHASE TICKETS: Click here
UP NEXT
The Sun Devil women's basketball team (10-14, 2-10 Pac-12) begins the final third of Pac-12 play this weekend when it hosts Washington on Friday (6 p.m. MST) and Washington State on Sunday (12 p.m. MST).
On Friday the squad is celebrating Black History Month and the first 500 fans will receive an exclusive poster of Sun Devil Women's Basketball greats.
The Washington State match-up is Sunday Funday with all kids 12 and under receiving FREE admission. Bring the kids and join us as we celebrate National Girls & Women in Sports Day and our annual Pink Game for Breast Cancer Awareness.
SETTING THE SCENE
After playing seven of their last nine contests on the road, the Sun Devils will conclude the 2023-24 regular season slate with four of their final six contests at home starting with this weekend's games. After this weekend, the Sun Devils will travel to the Bay Area for rematches with Cal and No. 3 Stanford. They will then conclude the regular season with home rematches against No. 9 UCLA and No. 10 USC.
Like their last four games of the season, this weekend's games are also rematches of games played earlier this season. ASU captured its first win in league play at Washington on Jan. 21. To get the win, ASU to overcome a Washington squad that had lost only once at home (coming into the game) and came into the game first in the Pac-12 and seventh in the nation in scoring defense (52.4 ppg).
Jalyn Brown (11-20 FGs, 4-5 3FGs, 8-8 FTs) posted her second 30-point game of the season, finishing with 34 points (scored 35 vs. Colorado on Jan. 7). ASU's 73 points represented the most given up by UW (at the time). Furthermore, ASU tied a Washington opponent high (at the time) by hitting eight triples. ASU was 61.5 percent (8-13) from downtown against the Pac-12's top team/No. 13 in the nation in 3-point FG percentage defense (24.8 percent coming into the game).
Prior to its win at Washington, the Sun Devils lost at WSU 79-64. Brown scored a game-high 21 points and freshman Mallory Miller added a career-high 15 points and a game- and career-high eight rebounds. Jaddan Simmons (13 points, seven rebounds, game-high seven assists, game-high five steals) and Isadora Sousa (career-high 12 points, seven rebounds) combined for 25 points for the Sun Devils, who were on relatively even terms with the Cougars in scoring (edged WSU 58-57) over the final three quarters after falling behind 22-6 in the first quarter.
The last time it was home, ASU had its finest offensive performance in recent memory in a 76-71 win over Cal (Jan. 28). Five players scored in double figures led by Brown, who had a game-high 21 points to help ASU accumulate its season-high point total in conference play. Simmons scored 15 points to go with a game-high four steals; Journey Thompson (game high-tying eight rebounds) and Trayanna Crisp had 13 points each and Sousa scored all 12 of her points via the long ball (4-4 3FGs).
ASU was remarkable throughout the game on the offensive end as it shot 54.8 pct, its highest FG pct. since shooting 56 pct vs. SIU on Nov. 24, 2018. It was its highest percentage in a Pac-12 game since a 55.6-percent effort vs. Arizona on February 16, 2018. On top of those feats, ASU set a school record for 3-point FG pct (minimum of 10 attempts) as it hit 80 pct (8-10) of its attempts.
WATCH/LISTEN
Friday's game can be seen on Pac-12 Arizona (Cindy Brunson, Julie Rousseau). The game can also be heard on KDUS AM 1060. Veteran broadcaster and the state of Arizona's 2010 & 2019 Broadcaster of the Year and a finalist for the 2023 award, Jeff Munn is in his 20th season as the voice of ASU women's basketball. He will be joined by former Sun Devil head coach Maura McHugh.
JALYN BROWN ASCENDING TO SUPERSTAR STATUS
• As the season has progressed, Jalyn Brown has evolved into one of the top performers in the Pac-12. In league games, Brown is currently 2nd in the Pac-12 in scoring (21.7 ppg) & 6th in scoring in all games (17.7 ppg).
• Brown has scored in double figures 19 times, including 17 times in the last 18 games. During that 18-game stretch, she is leading the team in scoring (19.9 ppg), 3FGs per game (1.6) and free throws made (76), attempted (93) and FT percentage (81.7), is second in 3FG pct. (37.8) and minutes (36.8 mpg) and 3rd in assists (1.6 apg).
• In contest vs. No. 5 Colorado on Jan. 7, Brown scored 35 points, the most points by a Sun Devil in the 21st century.
• Added a second 30-point game, scoring 34 points (11-20 FGs, 4-5 3FGs, 8-8 FTs) in ASU's first Pac-12 win at Washington (Jan. 21).
MOST POINTS IN A GAME BY A SUN DEVIL SINCE 2000
35 - Jalyn Brown vs. Colorado (1/7/24)
34 - Jalyn Brown at Washington (1/21/24)
34 - Jade Loville at San Diego (12/18/21)
33 - Jade Loville vs. Oregon St. (2/4/22)
32 - Kylan Loney vs. Arizona (1/31/04)
30 - Kianna Ibis at Utah (12/31/17)
30 - Amanda Levens vs St. Peter's (11/17/01)
MOST 20-POINT GAMES BY A SUN DEVIL SINCE 2000
15 - Tyi Skinner (2022-23)
12 - Amanda Levens (2001-02)
11 - Jalyn Brown (2023-24)
9 - Jade Loville (2021-22)
8 - Kianna Ibis (2018-19)
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
• As of Feb. 15, 2024, ASU is ranked in the top half of the Pac-12 in FT attempts per game (1st/18.67), is 4th in offensive rebounds per game (11.7), fewest turnovers per game (13.2/33rd in the nation), 5th in FTs made per game (12.79) and turnover margin (+2.33) and 6th in turnovers forced per game (15.54) and steals per game (7.5).
• Individually, Jaddan Simmons is ranked 20th in the nation in minutes per game (36.33), 43rd in FTs made (99) and 48th in FT attempts (126).
• ASU has had 6 players lead/tie for team lead in scoring: Brown (12x), Simmons (5x), Kadidia Toure (4x), Crisp (4x), Treasure Hunt (1x) and Journey Thompson (1). Brown's career-high 35 points vs. No. 5 Colorado (Jan. 7), is the highest single-game total by a Sun Devil this season.
• In the rebounding department, 9 players have led/tied for the team lead: Thompson (10x), Simmons (5x), Maggie Besselink (4x), Toure (3x), Mallory Miller (2x), Sandra Magolico (2x), Brown (2x), Isadora Souza (2x) and Hunt (1x). Toure's 14-rebound game vs. San Francisco (Nov. 13) represents the most rebounds by a Sun Devil this season.
• ASU has averaged only 12.0 turnovers (+2.2 turnover margin) in its last 18 games. It has had 11 or fewer turnovers 8x during that stretch.
• Crisp has scored in double figures in all but 6 games. In her 5 games prior to contest at UCLA (Feb. 11), she played all 200 mins (led team), 15.4 ppg, 1.4 spg (led team), 3.6 rpg (2nd on team).
• On Dec. 20, Simmons (now with 1096 points) became the 25th Sun Devil to score more than 1000 points. Simmons played all 80 minutes on Washington road trip – at WSU (Jan. 19) & at UW (Jan. 21) – and averaged 11.0 ppg, 6.5 rpg, 5.0 apg, 3.0 spg & 87.5 from FT line (14-16).
• Since returning from injury, Isadora Sousa has been one of the team's top 3FG shooters: 12-23/52.2 pct.
• Thompson has averaged 8.0 rebounds in ASU's last 5 games.
SERIES NOTES VS. WASHINGTON
• This will be the first time ASU and UW will play two regular season games since 2019-20. In 2021-22, ASU's games vs. the Washington schools (scheduled to be played in Tempe) and the 2021 games vs. the Washington schools (scheduled to be played in Washington) were postponed and eventually canceled due to Covid-19 protocols.
• Washington won the three meetings, 50-35 in 2021 (in Tempe), 74-69 in 2022 (in Seattle) and 55-53 last season (in Tempe).
• With its win last month, 24 of 34 contests since 2005-06.
• In 2020, ASU won 67-50 in Seattle and 72-68 in Tempe. In the latter win, former Sun Devil Reili Richardson led ASU with 17 points and added six assists to become ASU's all-time leader in career assists.
• In 2019, the teams had their only scheduled contest canceled by a snowstorm in Seattle.
SEASON SUMMARY
• ASU has had a pair of season-best three-game winning streaks in 2023-24. It started 3-0 after home wins over UTSA (70-55/Nov. 6), Montana State (75-62/Nov. 10) & San Francisco (77-69/Nov. 13). In the first half of its first three wins, ASU averaged 45.3 points & hit 49.5 pct of its shots. In the win vs. UTSA, ASU tied last season's highest point total in a half on its way to a 49-23 halftime lead. Against Montana State (Nov. 30), ASU scored 30 points in the first quarter, representing the third time it has scored 30 or more points in a quarter under head coach Natasha Adair.
• In its first loss at Grambling State (Nov. 16), ASU scored 32 points and shot 38 pct. in the first half while allowing the Tigers to score 45 points. Down by as many as 17, ASU tied the game at 67-67 before the Tigers hit game-winning 3-pointer in final seconds.
• ASU responded with a 72-40 win over Idaho State. The Bengals' final point total represented the fewest given up by ASU since a 49-40 win over VCU on November 27, 2020.
• After dropping an 84-42 decision to Texas in its first game at the Virgin Islands Paradise Jam (Nov. 23), ASU once again rebounded with a 3-game winning streak. Less than 24 hours after the setback to Texas, ASU had to face a South Florida squad (Nov. 24) that entered the game among the Top 50 teams in the nation in rebounding margin (+10.8). ASU rose to the challenge and outrebounded the Bulls 38-32 in its 66-49 win. In its 77-69 win over High Point (Nov. 25), ASU shot 50 percent for the game, the first time it shot 50 percent or higher since a win at San Diego on Dec. 18, 2021. Brown had her first 20-point game, while Hunt just missed a double-double with season highs in points (19) and rebounds (game-high 8 boards).
• ASU made it three straight wins after a 76-66 triumph over Pacific (Dec. 1). Simmons scored 17 of her career-high 26 points in the 2nd half, including 8 points in the final 94 seconds while Brown contributed 20 points for the second straight game.
• The Sun Devils nearly came back from 14 down in the 4th quarter (got within 4 points 2x) before falling to Grand Canyon, 66-59 on Dec. 8. Simmons (20 points), Crisp (18 points) and Brown (16 points) scored all but 5 of ASU's points.
• ASU dropped consecutive games for the first time this season after falling to Arizona 91-52 in the Pac-12 opener for both teams.
• ASU got back on the winning track scoring a season high in an 80-76 win over Fresno State as part of the Jerry Colangelo Hall of Fame Series played at Footprint Series in Phoenix. Toure scored 12 of her career high-tying 22 points in the second half while Brown continued her streak of scoring in double figures in games she has started (eight) with 20 points. Crisp scored 12 points while Simmons and Thompson (career-high four steals) scored 10 points each. ASU shot 49 percent for the game, its second-highest mark of the season. Simmons, who went over 1,000 career points in the fourth quarter of the win, set a career high with eight assists and hit a pair of free throws with six seconds remaining to help clinch the win.
• The short-handed Sun Devils nearly came back from a double-digit deficit but in the end did not have enough to get over the hump in 65-55 loss to Santa Clara (Dec. 30). Crisp and (12 points), Simmons (11 points) and Toure (10 points) led the way for the Sun Devils (8-5), who were without key contributors Maggie Besselink and Treasure Hunt. The Sun Devils trailed by as many as 12 in the first half before transforming their defense into a riddle Santa Clara had no answers for during the latter stages of the first half and for the entire third quarter. The net result was a game tied at 44-44 entering the fourth quarter. Santa Clara outscored ASU 21-11 in the 4th Q.
• ASU came through with one of its most inspired defensive efforts of the season in holding one of the most prolific offenses in the country more than 30 points below its scoring average. Unfortunately, ASU was not able to do enough on the offensive end in a 58-41 loss to No. 15 Utah (Jan. 5).
• Brown scored 35 points, the most by a Sun Devil in the 21st century in ASU's 81-68 loss to No. 5 Colorado on Jan. 7.
• The Sun Devils dropped both of their contests at the Oregon schools: 65-53 at Oregon and 92-55 at Oregon State. Brown led the team in scoring, averaging 15.5 ppg and knocking down 83 percent of her free throws (10-12) in the two games. Also providing major contributions was Thompson, who averaged 14.0 points and 4.5 rebounds, the second time this season Thompson scored in double figures in consecutive games.
• After falling at WSU 79-64 (Jan. 19), ASU captured its first Pac-12 win at Washington, 73-65 on Jan. 21. Brown posted her second 30-point game of the season, finishing with 34 points to lead the Sun Devils to the win.
• ASU came through with its best offensive performance in recent memory in a 76-71 win over Cal on Jan. Five players scored in double figures led by Jalyn Brown, who had a game-high 21 points to help ASU accumulate its season-high point total in conference play.
ASU was remarkable throughout the game on the offensive end as it shot 54.8 pct, its highest FG pct. since shooting 56 pct vs. SIU on Nov. 24, 2018. It was its highest percentage in a Pac-12 game since a 55.6-percent effort vs. Arizona on February 16, 2018. On top of those feats, ASU set a school record for 3-point FG pct (minimum of 10 attempts) as it hit 80 pct (8-10) of its attempts.
• In a game in which the final score belied the closeness of the game, ASU came up short at Arizona, 63-52 on Feb. 4. Crisp (15 points, five rebounds) led the Sun Devils, who were looking to win back-to-back road games in league play for the first time since January of 2020. Any hope the Sun Devils had of squaring this year's edition of the Territorial Cup Series was extinguished less than four minutes into the final period as the Wildcats added on to the four-point spurt at the end of the third quarter by scoring the first nine points of the final one to extend out to a 54-41 lead. The Wildcats were never threatened after what ended up being an 18-2 run that put ASU into a 59-43 hole with under four minutes remaining.
• ASU ended its run of nine games on the road with contests at No. 9 USC and No. 10 UCLA. At USC, after trailing by as many as 19 points, ASU whittled USC's lead down to 10 after Toure's jumper with 17 seconds left in the first half. The Sun Devils got even closer, trimming USC's lead to single digits after Crisp's 3-pointer in the opening moments of the third quarter made the count 38-31. As fast as the Sun Devils got back into game, they lost their grasp of it just as quickly as the Trojans – in fewer than three minutes – reclaimed a firm grip of the contest by outscoring ASU 10-2 to take a commanding lead once again, 50-33, with 6:14 remaining. The Sun Devils would cut the lead to 11 once more but were not able to get any closer... At UCLA, after getting outscored 17-10 in the first quarter, the Sun Devils put together their best sequence of the game as they outscored UCLA 7-2 over the first six-plus minutes of the second quarter to pull within two points, 19-17. If there was a negative during the successful stretch it was the Sun Devils not being able to score more points while the Bruins were struggling with their offense. ASU's inability to do more damage on the scoreboard was magnified when the Bruins finally found their footing and closed the half with a 9-2 run to take a 28-19 lead at the half. UCLA's success carried over into the third quarter as they opened the second half with a 17-6 run to more than double their halftime lead, 45-25 with 5:48 remaining in the third quarter.
ASU WITHOUT ALL-PAC-12 STANDOUT TYI SKINNER IN 2023-24
Although the Sun Devil women's basketball team's overall health is a 180-degree difference from last season, the squad was dealt a tremendous blow when Natasha Adair announced Oct. 4, 2023, that senior guard Tyi Skinner would miss the 2023-24 season due to a knee injury.
Skinner, who last season earned All-Pac-12 honorable mention honors from the league's coaches and All-Pac-12 recognition from media who cover the league, quickly established herself as one of top scorers in the Pac-12 and one of the most exciting players in the nation to watch in her first season in Tempe.
In 2022-23, Skinner scored 20 or more points 15 times, including a career-high 29 points on two occasions. A starter in all 28 games, Skinner went on to average 19.3 points per game, the most by a Sun Devil since the 1988-89 season. She concluded her first campaign in the Maroon and Gold among the leaders in the Pac-12 in points per game (19.3/2nd/27th in the nation), 3-pointers per game (2.43 per game/2nd), minutes per game (36.59/3rd/29th in the nation), free throws made (79/3rd) and attempted (91/4th), steals per game (1.71/5th), 3-point FG percentage (34.7/6th) and free throw percentage (78.1/8th).
PLAYER NOTES
#1 • Kadidia Toure • F • 6-3 • So. • Silver Spring, Md.
• Transferred to ASU in 2023 (played @James Madison as freshman).
• Has played in every game (7 starts) and leads the team in FG pct. (45.6), is 2nd in O-rebs (1.7 rpg), 4th in overall rebounds (4.0 rpg) and 5th in scoring (6.3 ppg).
• Pulled down 6 rebounds, her individual high in a Pac-12 game, at Arizona (Feb. 4).
• Consecutive games vs. Fresno State (Dec. 20) and vs. Santa Clara (Dec. 30): Led team in scoring (16.0 ppg) and rebs (6.5 rpg). Tied career high (22 points) vs. Fresno State.
• During earlier 3-game stretch (game Nos. 2-4), averaged 19.0 ppg & 9.3 rebs per game... Posted first career double-double with career highs in points (22) & rebounds (14) vs. San Francisco (Nov. 13).
• Four-year varsity player for Our Lady of Good Counsel (Olney, Md.). As a senior in 2022, the league's player of the year averaged 14 points, 13 rebounds and four blocks on her way to WCAC Player of the Year honors and first-team All-Met recognition.
#2 • Jaddan Simmons • G • 5-9 • Sr. • Houston, Texas
• Has started 100 of 101 career games (10.9 ppg avg./1096 career points/18th all time).
• Currently leads ASU in FTs attempted (126), made (99), assists (3.3 apg), steals (1.9 spg) and minutes (36.20 mpg), is 3rd in scoring (10.5 ppg), overall rebounds (4.3 rpg) and O-rebs (1.4 rpg).
• Connected on season-high 10 FTs 2x (vs. UTSA/vs. Pacific).
• Played 38 or more minutes in more than half (13x) of team's games.
• Has grabbed season-high 7 rebounds 5x this season, had 3 or more steals 8x this season (season-best 5 vs. GCU and at WSU) and 5 or more assists 3x (career-high 8 assists vs. Fresno State).
• Played all 80 minutes on Washington road trip – at WSU (Jan. 19) and at UW (Jan. 21) – and averaged 11.0 ppg, 6.5 rpg, 5.0 apg, 3.0 spg and connected on 87.5 percent of her free throws (14-16).
• Scored most points since Dec. 8 after accounting for 15 points, 4 steals and 3 steals in win over Cal (Jan. 28).
• In the month of December (vs. Pacific, vs. GCU, vs. Arizona, vs. Fresno State, vs. Santa Clara), averaged 15.6 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 2.4 apg, 2.4 spg, 6.8 FT attempts. In ASU's win over Fresno State (Dec. 20), Simmons had a career-high 8 assists with zero turnovers.
• Scored career-high 26 points in ASU's win over Pacific (Dec. 1) and was named to Briann January Classic All-Tournament Team.
• First 4 games of season: Averaged 16.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 3.8 apg, 3.0 spg and shot 56 pct 3FG (5-9) and 90 pct (27-30) from the line.
• Superb all-around effort at WSU (Jan. 19) included 13 points, 7 rebounds, game-high 7 assists and game-high 5 steals.
#3 • Tyi Skinner • G • 5-5 • Sr. • Washington, D.C.
• Was announced on October 4, 2023 that Tyi Skinner will miss the 2023-24 season due to a knee injury.
• Made an immediate impact in her first season as a Sun Devil, earning All Pac-12 recognition from media that cover the league and Pac-12 HM honors from the league's coaches for a season in which she started all 28 games and averaged the most points per game (19.2) in a season since 1988-89.
• Scored in double figures in 25/28 games, including 15x w/20 or more points & finished 2nd in the Pac-12/27th in the nation in ppg.
#4 • Trayanna Crisp • G • 5-8 • So. • Goodyear, Ariz.
• Has played in 52 career games (28 starts).
• Has played in every game this season (21 starts) and has scored in double figures in all but 6 games. In two of those games – vs. Utah (Jan. 5) and at WSU (Jan. 19) – didn't return after getting injured in 1st Q.
• Tied for team lead in 3FGs per game (1.4), is 2nd in scoring (11.3 ppg), assists (2.3 apg), steals (1.4 spg) and minutes (32:28 mpg) and 3rd in FT pct. (77.1).
• In her 5 games prior to contest at UCLA (Feb. 11), played all 200 mins (led team), 15.4 ppg, 1.4 spg (led team), 3.6 rpg (2nd on team).
• Has played all 40 minutes in half of team's Pac-12 games (6/12).
• Scored 17 points and had team-high 5 assists at USC (Feb. 16).
• Led ASU with 15 points and tied career high in rebounds (5) for the 3rd time this season at Arizona (Feb. 4).
• Scored 11 of 16 points in 2nd half of ASU's win at UW (Jan. 21).
• Five games prior to contest vs. Utah: Averaged 13.6 ppg (2nd on team) and tied for team lead in steals (2.2 spg).
• Scored a then-career high 17 points 2x in ASU's first 7 games and surpassed that in 10th game with 18 vs. Grand Canyon (Dec. 8).
• Averaged 14.3 ppg in earlier 4-game stretch (included pair of career-high 17-point efforts vs. Idaho State and vs. South Florida). Also had career-high 6 assists (0 TOs) vs. Idaho State.
#10 • Marina Radocaj • G/F • 6-2 • Fr. • Richmond, British Columbia
• Earned spots on Canada's U16 and U17 teams.
• Member of the 2021 U16 Canadian Team that placed second at FIBA Americas. Radocaj averaged 9.2 points and 5.0 rebounds per game in the six games she played (all starts).
• Played in 5 games at 2022 FIBA U17 Women's Basketball World Cup.
• Has played in 6 games for ASU this season.. Hit one of ASU's nine 3-pointers in season-opening win over UTSA (Nov. 6).
#11 • Maggie Besselink • G/F • 6-3 • Sr. • Kingston, Ontario
• After missing the 2022-23 season due to injury, made her return to the floor in 2023-24.
• Played in 12 games in 2023-24 before suffering season-ending injury at Washington State (Jan. 19).
• Played and started in first 11 games. At the time of injury, was 2nd on the team in rebounds per game (4.6 rpg) and 4th in O-rebounds per game (1.3 rpg).
• Missed six games due to injury (starting with contest vs. Fresno State on Dec. 20)... Returned to action at Washington State (Jan. 19) and was limited to 7 minutes before leaving the game due to injury.
• Besselink, who had not played in a game since Feb. 6, 2022, was not only in the starting lineup in the season opener, but also played a major role in igniting ASU's offense after hitting back-to-back triples in the first quarter vs. UTSA (Nov. 6).
• Scored 11 points and grabbed a game-high 10 rebounds to post her second career double-double at Grambling State (Nov. 16).
• Added 10 points and career-high 3 steals vs. Idaho State (Nov. 19).
#12 • Treasure Hunt • G • 6-2 • Sr. • Chattanooga, Tenn.
• In her first season as a Sun Devil, played & started in 27 games and averaged 34.1 minutes, 11.3 points and 6.1 rebounds. Also made 28 3-pointers and had 22 blocks and 25 steals. Had career-high 24 points vs. Arizona on Jan. 22, 2023, and had career-best 15 rebounds at New Mexico on Nov. 20, 2022.
• Including 2 seasons at Kentucky, started 60 of 83 career games.
• Was announced on January 12 that she would not be playing due to personal reasons. Last game played was vs. Fresno State (Dec. 20). Return is TBD.
• Played in 11 of first 12 games (3 starts) and was averaging 6.9 ppg a the time it was announced she would not be playing.
• Was named to Reef Division All-Tournament Team of the Paradise Jam (Nov. 23-25) after averaging 14.7 ppg while shooting 56 percent (19-34 FGs), including 50 percent (5-10) from long distance, in ASU's 3 contests... Posted season highs in points (19) and rebounds (8) in win over High Point.
#13 • Sandra Magolico • F • 6-2 • Jr. • Maputo, Mozambique
• Transferred to ASU after playing two seasons at New Mexico CC.
• Has played in all but 4 games (vs. Santa Clara/at WSU/vs. Cal) this season (3 starts). Earned starting spot during ASU's time competing at the Paradise Jam: vs. South Florida on Nov. 24 (scored 8 points, led ASU with 7 boards and tied for team lead with 3 steals) and vs. High Point on Nov. 25 (4 points and 5 rebounds).
• In 2019, competed for the Mozambique national team, playing in nine games and averaged 11.0 minutes per game.
• Started 28/30 games in 2022-23, leading New Mexico JC to a 26-6 record and a Round of 16 finish in the NJCAA WBB Championship.
#21 • Hanna Miller • F • 6-2 • So. • Aberdeen, S.D.
• The sister of freshman Sun Devil Mallory Miller, transferred to ASU from Dodge City CC (Dodge City, Kan.) where she played in 23 games (3 starts) and averaged 11.3 minutes per game.
• As a senior in HS, teamed with Mallory to lead Aberdeen Christian to a 21-5 record and a berth in the Class B girls basketball tournament.
• Has played in 3 games and accounted for first points of career (4/1-1 3FG/1-2 FTs) in win vs. Idaho State (Nov. 19).
#22 • Journey Thompson • F • 6-3 • So. • McMurray, Pa.
• Played in 13 games (3 starts) as a freshman before having season prematurely come to an end due to injury.
• Has played in every game this season (20 starts/started last 16 games) and leads the team in rebounds (5.2 rpg), offensive rebounds (2.2 rpg) and blocks (0.6 bpg), is 3rd in steals (1.0 spg) and 5th in scoring (6.1 ppg).
• Has led/tied for team lead in rebs 10x and scored in double figures 8x this season.
• Has pulled down 7 or more rebounds 7x and has had multiple steals 7x.
• Pulled down career-high 13 rebounds vs. Stanford (Jan. 26) and followed that with 40-minute effort vs. Cal (Jan. 28) in which she scored 13 points (6-12 FGs) to go with 8 boards and 3 assists.
• Connected on half her shots (6-12 FGs) and scored 12 points vs. Oregon (Jan. 12) and followed that with career-high 16 points and 5 rebounds at Oregon State (Jan. 14).
• Scored 13 points and grabbed 12 rebounds for ASU's first double-double of the season in win vs. Montana State (Nov. 10).
• Scored 12 points in her first start of the season vs. San Francisco (Nov. 13) and had another 12-point outing vs. Idaho State (Nov. 19).
• Produced high-quality game in Paradise Jam finale vs. High Point on Nov. 25: 11 points (5-6 FGs) and 8 rebounds and scored 6 points to go with 8 rebounds, 2 blocks and 2 steals vs. Pacific (Dec. 1).
#23 • Jalyn Brown • G • 6-1 • So. • Baltimore, Md.
• Transferred to ASU in from Louisville is 2023.
• As the season has progressed, Jalyn Brown has evolved into one of the top performers in the Pac-12. In league games, Brown is currently 2nd in the Pac-12 in scoring (21.7 ppg) & 6th in scoring in all games (17.7 ppg).
• Has scored in double figures 19 times, including 17 times in the last 18 games. During that 18-game stretch, she is leading the team in scoring (19.9 ppg), 3FGs per game (1.6) and free throws made (76), attempted (93) and FT percentage (81.7), is second in 3FG pct. (37.8) and minutes (36.8 mpg) and 3rd in assists (1.6 apg).
• Has played all 40 minutes in 8 of ASU's Pac-12 games.
• In contest vs. No. 5 Colorado on Jan. 7, scored 35 points, most by a Sun Devil in the 21st century and the second-highest total by a player this season in a Pac-12 game (as of Jan. 20).
• Posted her 2nd 30-point game, scoring 34 points (11-20 FGs, 4-5 3FGs, 8-8 FTs) in ASU's first Pac-12 win at Washington (Jan. 21).
• Had tremendous Sun Devil debut: Scored 16 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in ASU's season-opening win vs. UTSA (Nov. 6). Followed that with an 11-point outing vs. Montana State (Nov. 10).
• Missed games vs. San Francisco (Nov. 13) & at Grambling State (Nov. 16) before returning in reserve role vs. Idaho State (Nov. 19).
• Was named to Reef Division All-Tournament Team of the Paradise Jam (Nov. 23-25) after averaging a team-high 17.0 ppg while hitting 54 percent of her shots (13-24) in ASU's two wins. Against South Florida (Nov. 24), scored 10 of 14 points & hit both of her 3-pointers during a game-changing 3rd quarter in which ASU outscored the Bulls 24-6… Added a game-high 20 points in ASU's win over High Point (Nov. 25).
• Scored 11 of 20 points in 1st quarter vs. Pacific (Dec. 1) and was named to Briann January Classic All-Tournament Team.
• Scored 16 points vs. Grand Canyon (Dec. 8) and followed that with 19 points and career-high 8 rebounds vs. Arizona (Dec. 17), career high-tying 20 points vs. Fresno State (Dec. 20) and career-high 4 steals vs. Santa Clara (Dec. 30).
• Scored 21 points (6-12 FGs, 3-3 3FGs, 6-6 FTs) and played all 40 minutes in win over Cal (Jan. 28).
• Averaged 24.5 points in contests at USC (24 points/Feb. 9) and at UCLA (25 points/Feb. 11)
#24 • Mallory Miller • F • 6-4 • Fr. • Aberdeen, S.D.
• The sister of ASU guard Hanna Miller, Mallory was named a KELOLAND Media Group All-Star Girls Basketball Player of the Year finalist and nominated Miss Basketball 2023 for the state of South Dakota after averaging 18.5 points, 9.5 rebounds and 2.7 assists.
• Led Wolsey-Wessington to a 22-3 record an appearance in the state semifinals (its first appearance in the state tournament) and the state's top seed in 2023.
• As a junior, teamed with sister Hanna to help Aberdeen Christian to a 21-5 record & a berth in the Class B girls basketball tournament.
• Has played in 20 contests and is averaging 10.9 minutes per game.
• Tied for team lead in rebs (7) & had 4 points vs. Idaho State (Nov. 19).
• Best game of season to date came at WSU (Jan. 19): career highs in scoring (15 points), rebounds (8) and minutes (30).
#25 • Adison Novosel • G • 5-11 • Jr. • Richfield, Ohio
• Has played in 14 games (10.2 mins per game) for ASU this season.
• All six of her 3-pointers came in 5-game stretch.
• Logged a season-high 30 minutes and knocked down season-high 3 triples vs. No. 15 Utah (Jan. 5).
• Transferred to ASU in 2023 after playing first two seasons at Saint Francis University where she appeared in 35 contests (25 starts).
• After appearing in seven games off the bench as a freshman, started 25 of 28 games in 2022-23.
• As a sophomore, led Saint Francis with 29 triples and posted career highs in points (12) and 3-pointers (4) vs. Central Connecticut State (Jan. 28).
#30 • Morasha Wiggins • G • 6-0 • Jr. • Kalamazoo, Mich.
• Transferred to ASU after playing her freshman season (2021-22) at North Carolina.
• Ranked 18th in the ESPNW Class of 2021 rankings, Wiggins was expected to be an impact player for the Sun Devils before suffering a preseason injury that forced her to miss the entire 2022-23 campaign. At the time of her 2023-24 injury, was averaging 12.6 minutes per game and was shooting 50 percent from the floor (6-12 FGs).
• Played in 6 games in 2023-24 before prematurely having her season end due to knee injury.
• Played 23 minutes and scored 8 points and hit all 4 FTs in her Sun Devil debut vs. San Francisco (Nov. 13).
#44 • Isadora Sousa • G • 6-0 • Grad. • Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Has played in 43 career games (19 starts) in her 3 seasons with ASU.
• Has worked hard to come back from injury each of her three seasons and has proven to be an effective performer when on the floor.
• Has started 12 of 13 games she has played this season and has connected on 52.2 percent of 3FGs (12-23).
• Scored all of her career-high 12 points via the long ball (4-4 3FGs) in ASU's win over Cal (Jan. 28).
• Scored 10 points and had career-high steals (3) vs. No. 5 Colorado (Jan. 7).
• In 2022-23, had the second-highest field goal percentage on the team, shooting 44.8%.
• Missed first 10 games due to injury before playing vs. Arizona (Dec. 17). Did not play vs. Fresno State (Dec. 20) but started ASU's game vs. Santa Clara (Dec. 30) and scored 7 points and had 3 rebounds in 19 minutes.
• Grabbed 6 rebounds at UCLA (Feb. 11).
RECAPPING THE 2022-23 SEASON
Despite a spate of unlucky injuries to key personnel, the Sun Devils had several noteworthy accomplishments during Adair's inaugural season in Tempe. The accomplishments included...
• Starting 5-0 for the first time since 2002-03.
• Finishing the season No. 2 in the Pac-12 and 10th in the nation in fewest turnovers per game (12.3). Only ASU's 2017-18 squad averaged fewer turnovers per game (11.7) in a season.
• Even with all its injuries, ASU nearly pulled off three Top 25 upsets in the season's final five games: vs. No. 21 Colorado (62-70), vs. No. 4 Utah (69-74) and vs. No. 19 UCLA (70-81-OT) in the first round of the Pac-12 Tournament. After trailing the Bruins by as many as 19 points in the third quarter, the Sun Devils staged a furious rally to take a two-point lead in regulation before falling in overtime. The win would have been ASU's biggest comeback in school history.
• In their 75-73 win at Oregon State, the Sun Devils overcame their second-largest deficit in school history (17 points). The victory was also No. 175 of Adair's career.
• Individually, Sun Devil guards Jaddan Simmons (Pac-12 All-Defense honorable mention) and Tyi Skinner (All-Pac-12 honorable mention) comprised one of the most talented backcourts in the country. Both players earned Pac-12 honors as voted on by the league's head coaches. Skinner, who finished second in the Pac-12 and 27th in the nation in scoring (19.2 ppg), was also named to the media's 15-member All-Pac-12 team.