NCAA Approves Coach Challenge Rule for Basketball

Arizona State's basketball program, coached by Bobby Hurley, is entering a major rebuilding phase after a challenging 2024-25 season, returning only 1.7% of its scoring and depending on new transfers for roster depth. The NCAA has approved significant rule changes for the 2025 basketball season, notably allowing coaches in both men's and women's basketball to challenge certain officiating calls in an effort to improve game flow and reduce controversy. This rule change is particularly relevant for teams like Arizona State, who previously lost close games due to unchallengeable calls. In football, Arizona State’s defense under Brian Ward has high potential for the 2025 season but faces questions about depth and injuries. The Big 12 has also announced key basketball matchups, including Arizona playing home-and-away games against Kansas, BYU, and Arizona State, maintaining important rivalries. Additionally, the NCAA is considering switching men's basketball from halves to quarters, though implementation challenges remain.