Arizona State Women’s Basketball Breaks Into NCAA Bracket Projection After Historic Start

The Arizona State Sun Devils women’s basketball team is making national noise. ESPN bracketologist Charlie Creme has projected the undefeated Sun Devils into his latest NCAA tournament field. This marks a stunning turnaround for a program under first-year head coach Molly Miller.

According to ESPN, the team is currently slotted as a No. 9 seed. This projection follows a perfect 14-0 start to the season, the best in program history. The Sun Devils have quickly become one of college basketball’s biggest early surprises.

Defensive Identity Fuels Unbeaten Run

Head coach Molly Miller has instilled a relentless defensive system. Her teams are known for applying constant full-court pressure and disrupting opponents. That identity has taken hold immediately in Tempe.

The Sun Devils’ defense has been the cornerstone of their success. They force a high number of turnovers and contest every shot. This gritty style has allowed them to win games even when their offense struggles.

Players like transfer guard Gabby Elliott have thrived in this system. The defensive intensity creates easy transition scoring opportunities. It is a formula that travels well and is built for postseason play.

Critical Big 12 Gauntlet Awaits

The Sun Devils’ non-conference schedule was manageable. Their true test begins with Big 12 conference play. The league is packed with ranked teams and national contenders.

Arizona State will face at least six conference foes currently ranked higher in the NCAA NET ratings. Matchups against powers like TCU and Iowa State will define their season. These games are major opportunities for resume-building victories.

Winning a few of those tough matchups will be crucial. It would solidify their tournament standing and prove they belong among the nation’s elite. The team’s mettle will be tested nearly every night.

Arizona State’s unexpected rise has them squarely in the NCAA tournament conversation. Their defensive toughness under Molly Miller makes them a dangerous potential bracket opponent. The Sun Devils have rewritten expectations and now aim to prove their projection is no fluke.

Info at your fingertips

Is Arizona State ranked in the AP Top 25?

Not yet. Despite their 14-0 record, the Sun Devils are still receiving votes just outside the official AP Top 25 poll. A win in their Big 12 opener could finally push them into the rankings.

Who is Arizona State’s head coach?

Molly Miller is in her first season. She was hired from Grand Canyon University, where she built a dominant Division I program known for its high-pressure defense and fast-paced style of play.

Who are the Sun Devils’ key players?

Graduate transfer Gabby Elliott is a leading scorer and defender. Forward McKinna Brackens provides interior scoring and rebounding. The team thrives on a balanced effort with contributions from the entire roster.

What seed is ASU projected to be?

In the latest update from ESPN’s Charlie Creme, Arizona State is projected as a No. 9 seed. This would pit them against a No. 8 seed in the first round of the NCAA tournament.

What is the NCAA NET ranking?

The NCAA Evaluation Tool (NET) is the primary metric used by the tournament selection committee. It considers game results, strength of schedule, game location, and net offensive/defensive efficiency. ASU is currently 42nd.

Trusted Sources

Information in this report was compiled from coverage by ESPN and the NCAA. Details on team records and rankings are based on official NCAA statistics and widely reported bracketology updates.