Social Media Reacts to Arizona State-Arizona Battle in Tempe

Former Sun Devil stars Cam Skattebo and James Harden were in attendance as Arizona State looked to upset No. 1 Arizona.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 3:31pm

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The Arizona State Sun Devils went into Saturday's rivalry game against the top-ranked Arizona Wildcats looking to secure a marquee win. Former ASU stars like running back Cam Skattebo and NBA MVP James Harden were in attendance to support their alma mater. The game featured several key moments that had social media buzzing, including a clutch shot by sophomore Noah Meeusen to tie the game at halftime and a technical foul on Arizona freshman Koa Peat.

Why it matters

This rivalry game between Arizona State and Arizona is always highly anticipated, with the schools separated by just 120 miles. The Sun Devils were looking to pull off the upset and earn a signature win over their in-state rival, which would have major implications for their postseason hopes. The presence of high-profile ASU alumni like Skattebo and Harden added to the excitement and energy surrounding the matchup.

The details

Arizona State came into the game with an 11-10 record, looking to knock off the top-ranked Wildcats. The Sun Devils were led by head coach Bobby Hurley, who was seeking his second marquee win over a highly-ranked opponent during his time in Tempe. The game featured several key moments, including a clutch shot by ASU sophomore Noah Meeusen to tie the game at 38 going into halftime, and a technical foul on Arizona freshman Koa Peat that allowed the Sun Devils to cut the Wildcats' lead to just nine points.

  • The game took place on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
  • Meeusen's game-tying shot came in the final seconds of the first half.
  • Peat's technical foul occurred with 6:16 left in the game.

The players

Cam Skattebo

A former Arizona State running back who currently plays for the New York Giants in the NFL.

James Harden

A member of the Arizona State Ring of Honor and the 2018 NBA MVP, who was in attendance to support his alma mater.

Noah Meeusen

A sophomore combo guard for Arizona State who hit a clutch shot to tie the game at halftime.

Koa Peat

A freshman phenom for Arizona who was assessed a technical foul during the game.

Bobby Hurley

The head coach of the Arizona State Sun Devils, who was looking to secure a marquee win over their in-state rival.

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What they’re saying

“Cam Skattebo is at the ASU vs Arizona game.”

— Mr. Az

“NOAH MEEUSEN BIG SHOT TO END THE HALF 🔥@SunDevilHoops tied up with No. 1 Arizona on TNT, truTV & HBO Max 👀”

— TNT Sports U.S.

What’s next

The outcome of this game will have major implications for both Arizona State and Arizona's postseason hopes. The Sun Devils will look to build on this performance, while the Wildcats will aim to bounce back from the upset bid.

The takeaway

This rivalry game between Arizona State and Arizona showcased the passion and excitement surrounding college basketball in the state of Arizona. The presence of high-profile alumni like Cam Skattebo and James Harden, as well as the clutch plays made by players like Noah Meeusen, highlighted the importance of this matchup to both fan bases.