Arizona State at Iowa State

AMES, Iowa (Interstat) — A surging Arizona State team will face a slumping Iowa State squad in a pivotal Big 12 men’s basketball regular-season finale on Saturday at Hilton Coliseum.

The Sun Devils (16-14, 8-9 Big 12) have won three of their last four games, including a 70-60 upset of then-Kansas on Tuesday. They are playing for seeding in next week’s conference tournament and a potential NIT berth.

Meanwhile, the Cyclones (24-6, 11-6) have lost three of their last four, most recently a 73-57 defeat at Arizona on Monday. They seek to regain momentum and secure a double-bye in the tournament.

The matchup features two of the league’s top guards. Arizona State is led by Maurice Odum, who is averaging 18.4 points and 4.9 assists over his last seven games. He scored 23 points with six assists in the win over Kansas.

Iowa State counters with Tamin Lipsey, who is averaging 12.8 points and 4.1 assists this season. He scored 17 points in the loss to Arizona but the Cyclones’ typically stout defense has faltered lately, allowing 79 points per game during their 1-3 stretch.

Arizona State’s recent success has been fueled by improved play from Massamba Diop, who had 19 points and three blocks against Kansas. The Sun Devils will need a collective effort to score against Iowa State’s defense, which still ranks among the nation’s best.

Iowa State, which is 15-1 at home this season, will rely on its Hilton Coliseum advantage. A win would provide crucial confidence before the postseason.

Tipoff is set for 1 p.m. CST on Saturday, March 7. The game will be televised on ESPN.