Arizona State opens with convincing 90-63 win over Northern Colorado

Arizona State began its NCAA men’s basketball campaign with a commanding 90-63 victory over Northern Colorado on November 7, 2026, at Desert Financial Arena in Tempe. The Sun Devils used a balanced offensive attack and a disruptive defensive effort to turn a competitive early-season matchup into a comfortable home win.

Match overview

The first half was played at a brisk pace, with Northern Colorado showing early confidence from the perimeter. Arizona State gradually settled into the game, tightening its half-court defense and creating easier scoring chances in transition. The Sun Devils built a 44-31 halftime lead and never allowed the Bears to mount a serious second-half comeback.

Arizona State’s advantage grew quickly after the break. The Sun Devils opened the second half with a sustained run, pushing the ball inside and capitalizing on Northern Colorado’s turnovers. The lead moved beyond 20 points midway through the period, allowing Arizona State to rotate its bench and preserve energy for the next stage of its non-conference schedule.

Key moments

The defining stretch came late in the first half, when Arizona State uncorked a 12-0 run that changed the game’s complexion. Northern Colorado had been within striking distance before the Sun Devils forced several hurried possessions and converted them into points at the other end. Early in the second half, another 17-4 surge effectively put the game out of reach.

Arizona State’s defensive pressure was particularly effective against Northern Colorado’s perimeter-oriented attack. The Bears struggled to find rhythm from three-point range and had few answers when the Sun Devils extended their defense. On offense, Arizona State shared the ball well, finishing with a healthy assist total and scoring from multiple positions.

Tactical story

Arizona State’s game plan revolved around pace and pressure. The Sun Devils pushed after made baskets and misses alike, forcing Northern Colorado to defend in scramble situations. That approach produced easy baskets and helped Arizona State overcome some early shooting inconsistency.

Northern Colorado’s best moments came when it slowed the tempo and attacked the paint through deliberate half-court actions. However, the Bears could not sustain that approach against Arizona State’s length and athleticism. The rebounding battle also favored the Sun Devils, who limited second-chance opportunities and controlled the defensive glass.

Standout players

• Jaden Lawson led Arizona State with 18 points and six assists, setting the tone in transition and making timely shots.
• Keonte Miller added 16 points and 10 rebounds, giving the Sun Devils a reliable interior presence on both ends.
• Devin Carter provided a spark off the bench with 12 points, including several baskets during Arizona State’s decisive runs.
• Brayden Holt paced Northern Colorado with 14 points, while Owen Pike contributed 11 in the loss.

Season impact

The win gives Arizona State a 1-0 start and an early confidence boost before a more demanding stretch of non-conference play. The Sun Devils showed the kind of defensive intensity and depth that can translate well into conference competition. For Northern Colorado, the 0-1 start offers clear areas for improvement, particularly ball security and perimeter shot selection. The Bears will look to regroup quickly as they continue their early-season road tests.