NCAAB Pick & Prediction for Arizona vs Arizona State

Arizona takes on Arizona State on Wednesday, February 28 at 10 p.m. ET on Pac-12 Network. Here's an NCAAB pick and prediction for Arizona vs Arizona State.

The Arizona Wildcats bounced back nicely with a big win at home against Washington on Saturday. They didn't cover the closing spread, but it got the team back on track to lock up a No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament.

Their inter-state rivals — the Arizona State Sun Devils — also were victorious at home against the Washington State Cougars.

The Wildcats destroyed the Sun Devils in their first matchup by 40 points, so there's potential they take the game too lightly. I have a feeling Bobby Hurley will have his team ready to play.

The Arizona Wildcats are headed toward another No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament.

On paper, their offense appears to be a well-oiled machine.

The team is currently ranked in the top 15 in both Offensive and Defensive Adjusted Efficiency. The Wildcats do an excellent job of protecting the ball and have a clear advantage in rebounding against their in-state rival.

Due to their ability to dominate the boards, they should have many second-scoring chances.

Although the team is known for its impressive 3-point shooting skills, it'll likely experience negative shooting regression, as it's attempted the third-most 3-pointers in the nation but only shoots 37% from deep.

The last time the Wildcats played the Sun Devils, they won by a significant margin due to their superior talent. They're expected to do well in a backcourt battle since they have Caleb Love and Kylan Boswell, who are better players than the Sun Devils can offer.

Based on the metrics in this matchup, it seems unlikely that the Sun Devils can keep the game close against the explosive Wildcats offense.

While the Sun Devils have a solid defense and are good at forcing turnovers, they struggle with rebounding and have been weak on the interior all season.

However, despite their offensive shortcomings and poor 3-point shooting, I have a feeling that Hurley's coaching skills will help the Sun Devils keep the game closer than expected.

The Sun Devils' backcourt will need to step up against Love and Boswell, and if the Sun Devils slow down their high-tempo offense and focus on defense, they could stay within the number.

Additionally, their 3-point shooting is due for some positive regression, which could be a game-changer.

I have faith in Hurley's coaching abilities to motivate the Sun Devils to keep the game close while playing at home. Despite having one of the weakest offenses among the Power 5 conferences, the Sun Devils excel at protecting the basketball.

Slowing down the tempo and abandoning their high-octane approach could force the Cats into an uncomfortable half-court offense. The Cats thrive in the transition period, and they prefer running up and down the court.

However, I believe the Sun Devils will surprise many people by keeping the game close and seeking revenge after their previous defeat.

Pick: Arizona State +13 or Better