Kansas City, Mo. – Seventh-ranked Iowa State defeated Arizona State 91-42 on Wednesday in the second round of the Big 12 tournament, a game that may mark the end of Bobby Hurley’s 11-year tenure as the Sun Devils’ head coach.
A Historic Defeat
Iowa State’s 49-point victory set a new record for the largest margin of victory in Big 12 tournament history, surpassing Texas’ 43-point win over Colorado in 2000. The loss was also the second-largest in Arizona State basketball history, trailing only a 50-point defeat to Texas Tech in 1956.
Milan Momcilovic led Iowa State with 21 points, while Joshua Jefferson contributed 20 points and 12 rebounds. The Cyclones (26-6) will advance to play No. 16 Texas Tech in the quarterfinals on Thursday. Arizona State finished the season with a 17-16 record.
Hurley’s Uncertain Future
The future of Coach Hurley remains unclear. “I’m not sure what’s going to happen. I don’t know. I have not spoken about my future next year,” Hurley stated after the game. Despite the decisive loss, Hurley expressed no regrets, saying, “I laid it out all on the line to the best that I could every night. And I did it until the last buzzer sounded.”
Whether Arizona State will participate in a lesser postseason tournament, such as the NIT or the College Basketball Crown, where they played last year, is currently unknown.
Players Reflect on Hurley’s Impact
Senior Allen Mukeba spoke highly of Hurley’s influence, stating, “He changed my life…It’s a blessing for me, just a blessing to be a part of this team.” Hurley previously led the Sun Devils to back-to-back NCAA tournament appearances, a first for the program since the 1980-81 seasons, and once had the team ranked third in the nation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the game between Iowa State and Arizona State?
The final score was Iowa State 91, Arizona State 42.
What is Bobby Hurley’s record at Arizona State?
Bobby Hurley’s record at Arizona State is 185-167 over 11 seasons.
What did Bobby Hurley say about his future with the program?
Bobby Hurley stated, “I’m not sure what’s going to happen. I don’t know. I have not spoken about my future next year,” but added that he has no regrets.
As Arizona State looks ahead, the question remains: what will the future hold for the program and for Bobby Hurley?
