The Arizona State Sun Devils (12-10, 3-8 Big 12) are set to face the Oklahoma State Cowboys (11-11, 3-8 Big 12) in a thrilling Big 12 showdown on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at Gallagher-Iba Arena in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Both teams are tied in the conference standings, making this a critical matchup for their postseason aspirations. This article provides a comprehensive prediction, betting tips, and analysis to help you make informed decisions.
Game Overview
- Date and Time: Sunday, February 9, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET
- Location: Gallagher-Iba Arena, Stillwater, OK
- TV/Streaming: ESPN+
- Odds: Oklahoma State -1.5, Total: 144.5
Team Analysis
Arizona State Sun Devils
The Sun Devils enter this game with a 12-10 record, having lost seven of their last ten games. Despite their struggles, they’ve shown resilience on the road, securing wins against West Virginia and Colorado. Key players include:
- Alston Mason: The senior guard averages 11.7 points and 3.7 assists per game, shooting 82% from the free-throw line.
- Jayden Quaintance: The freshman forward is a defensive powerhouse, averaging 9.8 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks per game. He’s also on the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year watchlist.
- BJ Freeman: Leading the team in scoring with 12.9 points per game, Freeman adds depth to the Sun Devils’ offense.
Arizona State ranks 40th in defensive efficiency, holding opponents to 41.5% shooting from the field. However, their offense has been inconsistent, averaging 73.1 points per game.
Oklahoma State Cowboys
The Cowboys are 11-11 overall and coming off a tough loss to No. 5 Houston. Despite the setback, they shot 51% from the field against one of the nation’s best defenses. Key contributors include:
- Abou Ousmane: The senior forward averages 12.0 points and 5.9 rebounds per game, leading the team in scoring .
- Arturo Dean: Known for his defensive prowess, Dean averages 2.2 steals per game in Big 12 play, making him a disruptive force.
- Bryce Thompson: The guard is on a nine-game double-figure scoring streak, averaging 15.1 points during this span.
Oklahoma State’s offense averages 72.3 points per game, but their defense has struggled, allowing opponents to shoot 47% from the field.
Head-to-Head and Trends
- Series History: Oklahoma State leads 5-3, with a 2-0 record in Stillwater. This is their first meeting since 1997.
- Recent Form: Both teams are 3-7 in their last ten games, highlighting their struggles in conference play.
- Betting Trends: Arizona State is 12-8-1 against the spread (ATS), while Oklahoma State is 8-14-0 ATS. The under has hit in 12 of Arizona State’s last 15 games.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Jayden Quaintance vs. Abou Ousmane: This battle in the paint will be crucial. Quaintance’s shot-blocking ability could neutralize Ousmane’s scoring inside.
- Alston Mason vs. Arturo Dean: Mason’s playmaking will be tested against Dean’s elite defensive skills.
- Three-Point Shooting: Arizona State shoots 35.6% from beyond the arc, while Oklahoma State allows opponents to shoot 35.6% from three. This could be a deciding factor.
Prediction
This game is expected to be a close contest, with Oklahoma State opening as 1.5-point favorites. However, Arizona State’s strong defense and recent road success give them an edge.
- Final Score Prediction: Arizona State 75, Oklahoma State 71.
- Best Bet: Take Arizona State +1.5.
- Total Pick: Over 144.5. Both teams have shown the ability to score, and Oklahoma State’s defensive vulnerabilities could lead to a high-scoring game.
Betting Tips
- Moneyline: Arizona State (-108) offers good value as slight underdogs.
- Against the Spread: Arizona State has covered in 12 of 21 games this season, making them a safer bet.
- Player Props: Consider betting on Jayden Quaintance to record over 2.5 blocks, given his defensive dominance.
Conclusion
The Arizona State Sun Devils and Oklahoma State Cowboys are evenly matched, but Arizona State’s defensive prowess and road resilience make them the slight favorites. Whether you’re betting on the spread, total, or player props, this game promises to deliver excitement and value. Tune in on ESPN+ to catch all the action!