It is finally here. The first Territorial Cup showdown of the 2026 season. If you are scrambling to figure out what time is the asu game, you aren't alone. These late-night tip-offs are a staple of desert basketball, but they sure do make for a long Wednesday.
The Arizona State Sun Devils (10-6) are heading south to Tucson to face a juggernaut. We are talking about the No. 1 ranked Arizona Wildcats (16-0). This isn't just another game on the Big 12 calendar; it's a legitimate grudge match at the McKale Center.
What Time Is The ASU Game Tonight?
The game is set to tip off at 8:30 PM MST on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
If you're watching from the East Coast, grab some caffeine because that's a 10:30 PM ET start. For the local fans in Tempe or Tucson, 8:30 PM is the magic number. Doors usually open about 90 minutes early, but if you’re trying to catch it from your couch, that's when the broadcast goes live.
Honestly, these late starts are kind of a double-edged sword. On one hand, the energy in the arena is usually electric by then. On the other hand, some of us have work tomorrow. But hey, it’s the rivalry. You stay up for this.
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Where to Watch and Stream
You can catch the action on FS1 (Fox Sports 1).
If you've cut the cord, you have a few options:
- Fubo: They usually offer a free trial if you haven't burned through yours yet.
- Sling TV: Make sure you have the package that includes FS1.
- YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV: Both carry the channel as standard.
If you’d rather listen to the radio while you do other stuff, the Sun Devil Sports Network has you covered on ESPN 620 AM in the Phoenix area.
The Stakes in Tucson
This is a massive test for Bobby Hurley’s squad. The Sun Devils just snapped a four-game skid with a gritty win over Kansas State. Now, they walk into a "Red Out" in Tucson.
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Arizona is currently the top-ranked team in the country for a reason. They are 16-0. They have a freshman sensation in Koa Peat who is basically a walking bucket, averaging nearly 15 points a game. ASU’s Moe Odum is going to have his hands full, but he’s been the engine for the Sun Devils, averaging 16.4 points and over 6 assists.
The history here is deep. This is the 250th meeting between these two programs. Arizona leads the series 163-86, but Sun Devil fans will never forget that 2023 half-court buzzer-beater by Desmond Cambridge Jr. that silenced the McKale Center. Could we see more of that magic?
Key Matchups to Watch
Keep an eye on the boards. Arizona is one of the best rebounding teams in the nation, led by Tobe Awaka. ASU has struggled a bit on the glass this year, ranking much lower in rebounds per game. If Santiago Trouet and the Sun Devil bigs can’t keep the Wildcats off the offensive glass, it’s going to be a long night for the Maroon and Gold.
Also, look at the field goal percentages. Arizona shoots over 51% as a team. That is incredibly efficient. ASU’s defense needs to stay disciplined and avoid those "blow-by" drives that the Wildcats thrive on.
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Quick Facts for Game Day:
- Matchup: ASU Sun Devils vs. No. 1 Arizona Wildcats
- Date: Wednesday, January 14, 2026
- Venue: McKale Memorial Center, Tucson, AZ
- Uniform Note: It’s a Red Out for Arizona fans—expect a sea of red in the stands.
If you are planning to attend in person, Ticketmaster still has some resale seats available, though they aren't exactly cheap. Expect to pay at least $60 just to get in the building for a nosebleed seat. Prices for lower-level spots are easily clearing the $150 mark given the No. 1 ranking on the line.
The Sun Devils haven't won in Tucson since that 2023 miracle. Breaking a five-game road losing streak against your biggest rival while they sit at the top of the polls would be the highlight of the season.
Whether you're heading to Tucson or watching from home, now you know exactly what time is the asu game so you don't miss the tip. Clear your schedule for the next three hours because rivalry games in the Big 12 are never boring.
Actionable Next Steps
- Check your channel lineup: Confirm you have FS1 active on your cable or streaming service before 8:30 PM MST.
- Sync your apps: If you're on the go, download the Fox Sports app and log in with your provider credentials.
- Prepare for the rematch: Regardless of tonight's outcome, mark January 31, 2026, on your calendar. That is when Arizona makes the return trip to Tempe for the second leg of this rivalry.