We continue the recruit and return series with the Arizona State Sun Devils, whose season ended with a loss in the First Four against Syracuse. A look at what the 2018-19 season could hold.
Possible 2018-19 starting five
G: Remy Martin
Who is lost: The Sun Devils will graduate their top three scorers, Tra Holder, Shannon Evans and Kodi Justice, who combined for nearly 50 points per game.
Who is added: Not only does Arizona State have one of its best recruiting classes ever, it doubles as one of the most intriguing groups in the country. With three commitments, it’s not huge, but all three players will arrive with profiles that indicate they’ll be able to help the Sun Devils from day one. Let’s start with five-star guard Luguentz Dort, a 6-foot-5 Canadian who can play both guard positions. Size at the guard position was something the Sun Devils were lacking, and Dort solves that issue immediately. Taeshon Cherry decommitted from USC to pick ASU, spurning offers from rival Arizona and Gonzaga among others. The third player, Elias Valtonen, is a small forward from Finland who is considered one of the top incoming college players from Europe.
What it means for next season: Arizona State’s phenomenal start to the season forced the country to take notice of what coach Bobby Hurley is building. Despite some key losses – most notably Holder – the Sun Devils should be optimistic about their trajectory. Though they faded in conference play and that is cause for concern, Hurley’s ability to land some high-profile recruit speaks volumes. ASU should be near the top of the Pac-12 standings next season.
Trending: Up. One of the only reasons for concern for ASU at this point relate to Hurley – he has made such a strong impression that it’s not hard to allow for the possibility that a program with a more decorated history could come calling sooner rather than later.