ASU went into Albuquerque not knowing where it was as a team. After being drubbed 76-62, the Sun Devils have a much better idea of what they need to work on.
Herb Sendek's matchup zone, so effective in previous seasons, was defeated successfully by Steve Alford and the Lobos, who used a sophisticated blend of inside game and outside shooting to defeat ASU on Tuesday evening.
After getting off to a strong start, the Sun Devils were unable to find consistency in the harsh environment of The Pit. Ty Abbott and Jamelle McMillan missed a lot of shots, going a combined 4-16 from the field and turning the ball over seven times.
Trent Lockett played very well, scoring 22 points on 9-of-12 shooting and playing a team-high 34 minutes. Kyle Cain was the most consistent of the new ASU class, scoring eight points and grabbing seven rebounds in a losing effort.
Sendek must ask more of his senior leadership, who underperformed in this matchup. Should ASU expect to make a run in the Pac-10, Abbott, McMillan and Rihards Kuksiks must all play better and be more commanding on offense. Trent Lockett will not be able to lead this team alone.