The first time Arizona played ASU, Sun Devils coach Bobby Hurley admitted his team was unprepared for Deandre Ayton’s blend of size and athleticism.
“It’s hard to simulate,” Hurley said.
The second time around was no different.
The 7-foot-1 Ayton had 25 points and 16 rebounds as the No. 17 Arizona Wildcats beat the No. 25 Arizona State Sun Devils, 77-70, on Thursday night in Tempe.
The Wildcats improve to 21-6 overall and 11-3 in the Pac-12, keeping a two-game lead atop the Pac-12 standings. USC beat Oregon earlier in the day.