Phoenix, AZ, December 17, 2025
The Arizona State University (ASU) women’s basketball team has completed their non-conference schedule with a perfect 13-0 record, the best in program history. This milestone was highlighted by a hard-fought victory over Gonzaga, showcasing the team’s tenacity and resilience despite injuries. Their defensive prowess played a crucial role, forcing turnovers and demonstrating a collective effort that reflects the spirit of collegiate sports in Arizona. As they prepare to enter Big 12 conference play, the Sun Devils are poised to build on this success and continue their winning streak.
Phoenix, AZ — The Arizona State University (ASU) women’s basketball team has achieved a remarkable and historic milestone, completing their non-conference schedule with an undefeated 13-0 record. This perfect run marks the best start in the program’s history, setting an inspiring tone as they prepare to commence Big 12 conference play.
The Sun Devils’ tenacity and collective effort were on full display, culminating in a hard-fought 68-66 victory over Gonzaga on Tuesday night, despite playing short-handed due to injuries. This impressive performance not only highlights the team’s athletic prowess but also underscores the enduring spirit of competition and perseverance that resonates deeply within the Arizona community, fueling collegiate sports in Phoenix and across the state.
The team’s success is a testament to disciplined play and strategic coaching, with recent victories showcasing their ability to perform under pressure. Just days before their triumph over Gonzaga, ASU secured a thrilling 55-53 overtime win against Oregon State on Sunday, a game decided by a clutch three-pointer in the final seconds. Such gritty performances demonstrate a winning mentality, reflecting the value of determination and strategic execution on the court. The Sun Devils’ commitment to excellence extends beyond the scoreboard, contributing significantly to the vibrancy of Phoenix AZ sports and the broader Arizona collegiate sports economic impact. Their upcoming transition into the competitive Big 12 conference will test their resolve further, but their non-conference dominance provides a strong foundation.
Phoenix’s Thriving Sports Economy Bolstered by Collegiate Success
The exceptional performance of ASU’s women’s basketball team contributes significantly to the athletic and economic landscape of Phoenix and the wider state. Sun Devil Athletics, beyond the gridiron, generated nearly $45 million for the state’s Gross Domestic Product last year, contributing to an overall economic impact of $99.5 million on Arizona’s GDP. This financial injection supports local businesses, creates employment opportunities, and enhances regional visibility, demonstrating how university sports programs serve as vital economic engines. The consistent success and growing fan engagement of teams like ASU women’s basketball attract visitors and investment, fostering a dynamic environment for growth and community prosperity.
Building Success: Private Initiative and Community Engagement
The remarkable achievements of ASU’s athletic programs are not solely the result of on-court efforts; they are deeply rooted in a robust support system driven by private initiative, strategic investments, and strong community self-reliance. Various avenues allow individuals and organizations to contribute to the sustained success of Sun Devil Athletics. Donations made through the ASU Foundation, corporate partnerships, and Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) opportunities empower student-athletes and enhance program resources. Organizations like the Sun Devil Club, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, serve as primary fundraising arms, dedicated to providing student-athletes with the resources necessary to thrive academically and athletically. Furthermore, the Sun Angel Collective actively works to create opportunities for ASU student-athletes to leverage their personal brands through NIL, providing valuable experience and mentorship for future leaders. This blend of private capital and community support creates a robust framework for competitive excellence.
Strategic Investments and the Future of Collegiate Athletics
The broader landscape of college sports is currently experiencing a significant shift, with an increasing focus on private investment and innovative funding models. Conversations are actively taking place regarding how private equity can infuse capital into athletic departments, promising new avenues for growth and stability. The Big 12 conference, which ASU will soon join, is reportedly close to finalizing a substantial private capital deal with firms like RedBird and Weatherford Capital, potentially bringing millions to conference members. While maintaining institutional control, such partnerships represent a forward-thinking approach to financing collegiate athletics, emphasizing entrepreneurship and responsible growth in a rapidly evolving market. This influx of strategic investment aims to bolster programs, improve facilities, and support student-athletes, ensuring a competitive edge and enduring success for college basketball in Phoenix and beyond.
On-Court Excellence: A Deep Dive into Defensive Prowess
The undefeated non-conference record of the ASU women’s basketball team is largely attributable to their formidable defensive strategy and exceptional individual performances. In their recent victory over Gonzaga, the Sun Devils’ defense forced 26 turnovers, translating directly into 26 points. This aggressive, ball-hawking approach has become a hallmark of their play, consistently disrupting opponents’ offenses. Gabby Elliott has emerged as a key offensive force, delivering a season-high 30 points against Gonzaga, including a dominant 17-point fourth quarter. Such individual brilliance, combined with a cohesive team defense that has held opponents to 13 or fewer points in a quarter 27 times this season, demonstrates a program built on strong fundamentals and a relentless competitive spirit.
Looking Ahead: Big 12 Challenges and Community Pride
As the ASU women’s basketball team transitions from its historic non-conference run to Big 12 play, starting with a match against the Colorado Buffaloes on December 21, the challenges will undoubtedly intensify. However, their undefeated record provides a powerful foundation of confidence and momentum. The success of this team, alongside other ASU athletics programs, fosters a sense of community strength and collective pride across Arizona. The commitment to excellence exhibited by these student-athletes, supported by a network of private donors, corporate partners, and devoted fans, truly exemplifies the value of competition and personal perseverance. We encourage all Arizonans to stay engaged with ASU women’s athletics and consider supporting the Sun Devils as they embark on their inaugural Big 12 season, demonstrating the collective power of our community in fostering success both on and off the court.
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FAQ Section
What is the current non-conference record of the ASU women’s basketball team?
The ASU women’s basketball team finished their non-conference schedule with an undefeated 13-0 record.
Who was the top scorer in ASU women’s basketball’s recent game against Gonzaga?
Gabby Elliott scored a season-high 30 points in the game against Gonzaga.
When did ASU women’s basketball achieve their undefeated non-conference record?
ASU women’s basketball completed their undefeated non-conference schedule on Tuesday, December 16, 2025.
What was the score of the ASU women’s basketball game against Oregon State?
ASU women’s basketball defeated Oregon State 55-53 in overtime.
What is the economic impact of Sun Devil Athletics on Arizona’s GDP?
Sun Devil Athletics has a $99.5 million total economic impact on the state’s gross domestic product, with non-football ticketed sports contributing nearly $45 million.
How does the community support ASU athletics?
Community support for ASU athletics comes through donations via the ASU Foundation, corporate partnerships, NIL opportunities, the Sun Devil Club, the Sun Angel Collective, and ticket sales.
When does ASU women’s basketball begin Big 12 conference play?
ASU women’s basketball is set to begin Big 12 conference play on December 21.
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Feature Table: ASU Women’s Basketball Non-Conference Highlights
| Statistic/Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| Non-Conference Record | 13-0 (Undefeated) |
| Program Milestone | Best start in program history |
| Last Non-Conference Game | Won vs. Gonzaga, 68-66 (December 16, 2025) |
| Key Player Performance vs. Gonzaga | Gabby Elliott: Season-high 30 points (17 in 4th quarter) |
| Previous Notable Win | Won vs. Oregon State, 55-53 (OT, December 14, 2025) |
| Defensive Strength | Forced 26 turnovers vs. Gonzaga; 27 instances of holding opponents to 13 or fewer points in a quarter this season |
| Next Game | Big 12 Opener vs. Colorado Buffaloes (December 21) |
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