2006 Arizona State Sun Devils Basketball Preview

2006 Arizona State Sun Devils Basketball Predictions

Arizona State (11- 17 overall and 5- 13 PAC-10) has hired North Carolina State coaching guru Herb Sendek (253- 158 in 13 years overall), who guided his former school to five straight NCAA tournaments. The Sun Devils have not been to the March tourney since 2003 and did not see any post-season play last year. Hiring Sendek could mean a push for a national championship.

In the backcourt, the loss of the club’s top scorers— Kevin Kruger and Bryson Krueger—will be sharply felt. Junior Antwi Atuahene (7.1 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 3.9 APG, 44.2 FG%, 60.0 FT%) could man the point. Atuahene revealed promise last season until he was challenged to pick up the pace, which led to turnovers. Freshman Derek Glasser, a playmaker, will see important minutes and first year man Jerren Shipp will also play a lot.

Although the frontcourt is thin, there’s certainly stellar possibilities in sophomore forward Sylvester Seay (4.7 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 0.5 APG, 43.1 FG%, 47.6 FT%) and sophomore center Jeff Pendergraph (10.9 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 0.6 APG, 49.4 FG%, 73.0 FT%). Seay should get the start at small forward, allowing him to refine his shot while using his body to create opportunities. Pendergraph is a tough competitor who is smart, disciplined and hard working. He looks to break through this season.

Sendek’s first Sun Devils squad lacks depth and experience. For a motivated coach, which Sendek certainly appears to be, this program could be the ultimate challenge and triumph. Sendek received a five year contract, which means he and the school have committed to allowing the new guy to make his mark.

If Arizona State makes the NIT in 2006- 07, it will be a major accomplishment. That would mean improving from 11- 17 to at least 16- 16, if not better. It’s not an impossible goal, but in order to achieve it, this team must improve every area of play. If Sendek can do in the dessert what he did at North Carolina State, the Sun Devils will be mixing it up in the March Madness tournament within three years.

If you want more info on the 2006 Arizona State Sun Devils College basketball team check out the NCAA's official basketball team page of the program or check out some rival previews from Maddux Sports of schools like the California Golden Bears and Oregon State Beavers.