Sun Devils Battle Texas in High-Stakes Maui Invitational Showdown

The Arizona State Sun Devils face their toughest test yet in Hawaii. They meet the undefeated Texas Longhorns in the 2025 Maui Invitational first round on Monday night. This pivotal game tips off at 9:30 p.m. MST from the Lahaina Civic Center.

ASU enters as a 7.5-point underdog despite a strong 4-1 start. The matchup is a major opportunity for Bobby Hurley’s team before Big 12 conference play begins. Texas holds a commanding 5-1 lead in the all-time series.

ASU’s Resilient Start Faces Texas’s Dominant Defense

Arizona State brings momentum from a hard-fought road win. They defeated Hawaii 83-76 on November 20 after a strong second-half comeback. Guards Bryce Ford and Moe Odum have led a potent backcourt attack.

According to ESPN’s Basketball Power Index, Texas has an 86.5% chance to win this game. The Longhorns have won four straight since a season-opening loss to Duke. Their defense has been stifling, allowing just 62.6 points per game on average.

Texas is led by sophomore center Matas Vokietaitis. He has been a force on both ends of the floor early this season. His presence inside will challenge ASU’s frontcourt immediately.

Historic Rivalry Renewed on Neutral Ground

This is the first meeting between these programs since the 2014 NCAA Tournament. Texas won that game 87-85 in a thrilling March Madness encounter. Arizona State’s lone series win came back in 1981.

The Sun Devils have never beaten Texas on a neutral court. Their 0-3 record in such games adds an extra layer of motivation. Breaking that streak in Maui would be a significant statement for the program.

ASU has excelled in neutral-site games under Coach Hurley. They hold an impressive record in these environments during his tenure. That experience could prove vital against a talented Texas squad.

Key Matchups That Will Decide the Game

The battle in the paint will be crucial on Monday night. Texas’s elite rebounding, averaging 33 boards per game, meets ASU’s capable front line. Controlling the glass could dictate the pace and outcome.

ASU’s three-point shooting must challenge Texas’s perimeter defense. The Longhorns hold opponents to just 27.4% shooting from beyond the arc. If ASU’s guards get hot, they can overcome the underdog status.

Point guard Moe Odum’s playmaking is central to ASU’s offense. He ranks 23rd nationally with 7.2 assists per game. Texas will likely focus their defensive game plan on limiting his influence.

The 2025 Maui Invitational opener is a defining moment for both programs. Arizona State aims to prove it belongs among the nation’s best. Texas looks to maintain its perfect run and solidify its early-season resume.

Info at your fingertips

What time is the Arizona State vs. Texas game?

The game starts at 9:30 p.m. MST on Monday, November 24. It will be broadcast live on ESPN2 from the Lahaina Civic Center in Maui.

Who is favored to win the Maui Invitational game?

Texas opened as a 7.5-point favorite over Arizona State. ESPN analytics give the Longhorns an 86.5% probability of winning the first-round matchup.

What is the all-time record between ASU and Texas?

Texas leads the all-time series 5-1 against Arizona State. The Longhorns have won all three previous neutral-site meetings between the two schools.

How can I watch the Maui Invitational?

All tournament games air on ESPN networks. The ASU-Texas game is on ESPN2, with subsequent games on ESPN, ESPN2, or ESPNU throughout the week.

Who is Arizona State’s player to watch?

Point guard Moe Odum is the engine of the Sun Devils’ offense. He averages 7.2 assists per game and creates scoring opportunities for his teammates.

What happens after this Maui Invitational game?

The winner advances to the tournament semifinals on Tuesday. The loser will play in the consolation bracket, also continuing on Tuesday.