ASU Basketball Player Reflects on Rivalry Loss to Arizona

Moe Odum discusses the challenges of facing the Wildcats after a second defeat this season.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 7:47pm

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Arizona State basketball point guard Moe Odum spoke to reporters after his team was swept by their in-state rival, the Arizona Wildcats, for the second time this season. Odum discussed the intensity and emotions of playing in the long-standing rivalry game, as well as the disappointment of coming up short against the Wildcats.

Why it matters

The Arizona-Arizona State rivalry is one of the most heated in college basketball, with the two programs battling for bragging rights and recruiting advantages in the state. Odum's reflections provide insight into the mindset of a player participating in this intense rivalry.

The details

Odum, a junior point guard for the Sun Devils, has now faced the Wildcats twice this season, with Arizona winning both matchups. In his postgame comments, Odum acknowledged the unique challenges of playing in the rivalry game, noting the heightened emotions and pressure that come with facing the Wildcats.

  • The two teams played their first matchup of the season on January 15, 2026.
  • The second game between Arizona and Arizona State took place on January 29, 2026.

The players

Moe Odum

A junior point guard for the Arizona State Sun Devils basketball team.

Arizona Wildcats

The men's basketball team of the University of Arizona, a longtime rival of Arizona State University.

Arizona State Sun Devils

The men's basketball team of Arizona State University, who faced off against their in-state rival, the Arizona Wildcats, in two games this season.

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What they’re saying

“These games against Arizona are always intense. The rivalry brings out the best and worst in both teams.”

— Moe Odum, Arizona State Basketball Player (azcentral.com)

What’s next

The two teams are not scheduled to play each other again this regular season, but could potentially meet in the Pac-12 Tournament or NCAA Tournament if both teams qualify.

The takeaway

The Arizona-Arizona State rivalry remains one of the most heated in college basketball, with both teams and their players fully invested in the outcome of these matchups. Odum's comments highlight the unique challenges and emotions that come with participating in this longstanding in-state clash.