ASU Basketball: Devils get ready to take on Utah Utes to begin Pac-12 play

For the first time since 2008, Arizona State basketball will open its series of games against fellow Pac-12 teams in the friendly confines of Wells Fargo Arena. The Sun Devils (11-2) will begin with the Utah Utes (8-4), a game that should be fairly manageable for them.

The key matchup to watch throughout the night is between brothers Jordan Bachynski and Dallin Bachynski. Jordan is currently third in the nation with 4.8 blocks per game and has become a key starter that the Sun Devils rely on both offensively and defensively. He will have a distinct advantage over his Ute brother Dallin, who is two inches shorter. But the two brothers seem to be excited to play one another nonetheless. This will be the first time the two have faced off on a college basketball court.

While the Bachynski battle will be entertaining, perhaps the most key individual for ASU is senior forward Carrick Felix. Over the past 10 games, Felix is averaging 16 points, almost eight rebounds and has 11 blocks in that timespan. He is also shooting a ridiculous 57% from the field. He has become the stabilizing force for the Sun Devils as one of the only seniors in their rotation.

For history's sake, the Sun Devils split their two games with the Utes last season. Prior to that, they played the Utes back in the 2002-03 season. These former WAC rivals both feature 7-footers in the post, which figures to lead to a back and forth, jumpshooting game. Look for freshman Jahii Carson, junior JUCO transfer Evan Gordon and stretch forward Jonathan Gilling to get their fair amount of shots.

To watch the game, tune into the Pac-12 Network at 8:00 PM MST.