ASU Basketball: Sun Devils dismantle Idaho State

The Sun Devils coasted to an 88-60 victory behind a historic performance from center Jordan Bachynski.

Bachynski finished with 10 points and 10 rebounds, but his most significant stat was his six blocks. His fourth block, which came early in the second half, gave Bachynski 192 career blocks - the record for most blocks in school history.

"I knew I was close, I had no idea exactly how many I needed. It was coach Musselman who, in one of the timeouts, said congratulations," Bachynski said. "I'm honored to have that title."

Head coach Herb Sendek acknowledged that breaking the record was an impressive feat.

"Breaking the ASU career shot block record - that's an incredible accomplishment," Sendek said. "I thought when he played for the (Canadian) national team, that went a long way toward helping his confidence and putting him in a really good place."

The Sun Devils struggled to stop Idaho State early on, and the game was tied 15-15 just eight minutes in. However, the Sun Devils were able to close out the half on a 17-4 run to help solidify their lead.

In the second half, guards Jahii Carson and Jermaine Marshall were able to step up to put the game out of reach. Carson scored 14 of his 19 points in the second half, and Marshall hit two three-pointers. Marshall finished with 17 points, which is one point shy of his season average.

The Sun Devils also got a huge boost from freshman forward Egor Koulechov. Koulechov recorded 14 points, four steals and three rebounds all in the second half.

"I'm trying to play physical, I'm trying to help my team to win," Koulechov said. "It's a great confidence booster, but once again, it's the beginning of the season so we have a long way to go."

Koulechov attributed his performance to his desire to make an impact off the bench.

"I'm just trying to come off the bench and hustle - just trying to help my team," Koulechov said.

Overall Sendek was pleased with his team's effort and their mentality during the game.

"The guys are just really connected, their attitudes are tremendous," Sendek said. "Nobody has an individual agenda. I just love the camaraderie."

Next up the Sun Devils will travel to take on UNLV on Tuesday.

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Notes

• Sun Devil forward Eric Jacobsen fouled out of the game with 6:36 left to play.
• Idaho State point guard Tomas Sanchez fouled out of the game with 5:31 left to play.
• Jordan Bachynski recorded his third consecutive double-double. He had five career double-doubles coming into the season.
• Jonathan Gilling led all players with five assists, but he only finished with three points.
• The Sun Devils' 17-4 run to end the first half came immediately after Bengal post Ayibukaro Preh picked up his third foul.