In big time games there are big time plays, this is stating the obvious. However, it is often times the smallest of details that can make the biggest of differences, such was the case for Allonzo Trier in last night’s 84-78 win by No.17 Arizona over previously undefeated and No.3 ranked ASU.
Trier made perhaps the games biggest defensive play, and by no small measure, the best one of his career.
With 7:31 on the clock, ASU’s Tra Holder stole the ball on an inadvertent pass by Deandre Ayton. The Sun Devils, in the midst of a 11-0 run, were determined to flip the script on decades of basketball obscurity in a single moment. Each bounce Holder took felt like the apparent beginning of the end for Wildcat fans.
Holder was in a full out sprint to the basket with only Trier left as the last obstacle. In his time at Arizona, Trier has not been the defensive standout, instead a more offensive weapon, one of the best in the country. But in this moment, and in the ensuing seconds, that would all change.
Trier paced himself slightly behind Holder to appear as if he was gathering his position to try and attempt a block from behind. With the Arizona State guard slightly ahead of him, Trier recognized something different. Whether it was from film study or just great defensive instincts, Trier was balanced enough to defend whatever Holder was going to throw his way.
Holder, being one of the best in the country at drawing fouls, did just that. The difference being that he was being guarded by another player who also has a penchant for drawing the hack, and this time it wouldn’t workout in his favor. Holder hesitated at the basket to try and draw contact, Trier was composed, his awareness had now kicked into 100. As Holder attempted the shot, Trier was there to contest as the ball missed its’ mark.
Sun Devil guard Shannon Evans would miss the put back, what ensued was a 7-0 run the other way for Arizona.
It was, on paper, just another play. In reality, it kept Arizona out in front both in the moment and in the state.
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