Coming off back-to-back losing seasons, the Arizona State Sun Devils basketball program and seventh-year head coach Herb Sendek knew changes had to be made. Sendek, who led the Devils to three consecutive 20-win seasons from 2007-2010, knows what it takes to be successful and with a revamped team and coaching staff coming into to the 2012-2013 season, the Devils look hungry to get back to their winning ways in the Pac-12. A NBA-experienced assistant coaching staff, one of the top 50 recruits in the country and a starting lineup full of fresh talent have ASU fans excited at the prospect of 20 wins or more once again in Tempe.
Sendek cobbled together 23 different starting five combinations over the last two years, but couldn’t seem to find that recipe for success. But this season he’s got some new ingredients that are sure to be a hit with fans. The biggest addition to the program has to be Jahii Carson. Carson was one of the #10 prospect at his position in the country coming out of Mesa High School, but he had to sit out last season after failing to receive NCAA qualification. This year the slashing point-guard, who scored 18 points in the team scrimmage, will make his long-overdue debut and lead a new-look offense that should be much improved from a year ago.
Junior Evan Gordon, who spent last season with Liberty University, will also get an opportunity to start for Arizona State this season. The 6’3” guard brings plenty of experience to Tempe, having played in 31 games last season, including 25 starts. Gordon hit double figures in 19 of those contests and should get plenty of scoring opportunities for the Sun Devils. It doesn’t hurt that he’s part of a talented bloodline as well. His brother is NBA player Eric Gordon.
Other key additions include assistant coaches Eric Mussleman and Larry Greer. Musselman spent three seasons as a NBA head coach (Golden State 2002-2004 and Sacramento 2006-2007) and Greer spent last season as an assistant with the Portland Trail Blazers and worked for four years as an advanced scout. Sendek is making sure he has as much talent on the floor as on the sidelines and with more great basketball minds to concoct game-winning strategies, we should see his new hires result in more Ws for the Devils.
The 2012-2013 ASU hoops squad will also be strengthened by its returning members including 7’2” center Jordan Bachynski, senior Chris Colvin and senior wing Carrick Felix. Bachynski came on strong at the end of last season, averaging 10.1 points per game in the final 13 games. His large frame gives the Sun Devils an inside presence that should meld well with the quickness and shooting ability of their guards. Felix and Colvin will also play large roles and averaged 10.5 and 7 points per game last season respectively.
With a bevy of new talent and improved returning players, the Arizona State Sun Devils are ready to take on all comers in the Pac-12 this season and get back to the NCAA tournament. ASU fans can keep track of their favorite team all season long by attending Sun Devils home games and you can enhance your gameday experience by checking out Fandeavor.com’s incredible offers. Raise those pitchforks high and join your fellow Sun Devils at home games this season and at the exclusive Las Vegas Invitational tournament!