Arizona State Ranked No. 22 in ESPN Poll
The Sun Devils received national recognition in ESPN's preseason top-25 women's basketball rankings.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Basketball
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Arizona State women's basketball has been ranked No. 22 in the latest ESPN preseason top-25 poll. The program is looking to build on its momentum following a 2026 NCAA tournament appearance.
Why it matters
The ranking signals rising expectations for the program as it prepares to contend for a Big 12 title this season. The team is also set for a significant increase in national television exposure throughout the year.
Arizona State enters the season ranked No. 22, trailing Big 12 rivals TCU at No. 19 and Oklahoma State at No. 21. Coach Molly Miller previously finished her first season with a 9-9 conference record, a .500 winning percentage.
The players
Molly Miller
She is the head coach of the Arizona State women's basketball team who completed her first season with a 9-9 conference record.
Arizona State
This is a public research university in Tempe that maintains a competitive Division I women's basketball program.
The details
The team will benefit from a 45% annual increase in Big 12 league-controlled television games, featuring 29 matchups on networks including CBS Sports Network, ESPNU, and Fox Sports 1. This schedule includes a highly anticipated game against Oklahoma State on February 7, 2027.
Timeline
2019 marked the team's last NCAA tournament appearance before 2026.
October 13, 2026: ESPN released its preseason top-25 rankings.
November 2, 2026: Arizona State opens season against Jackson State.
2026-2027 season: Big 12 controls 29 league television games.
February 7, 2027: Arizona State plays Oklahoma State on ESPN.
Season Trajectory
The increased national television presence reflects the broader expansion of the Big 12 conference media profile. This improved visibility elevates the program's recruiting and sets a higher standard for the team's standing within the league.
Fans in Tempe can expect 29 league-controlled games on national networks, including a primetime slot on February 7. The program's new status as a top-25 team ensures higher-profile matchups throughout the 2026-2027 schedule.
The takeaway
The No. 22 ranking serves as a benchmark for the team's growth under coach Molly Miller. Consistency in conference play will be vital for the team to maintain this standing as they navigate a more televised schedule.
What happens next
Arizona State will open its season against Jackson State on November 2, 2026, followed by a matchup against Oklahoma State on February 7, 2027.
Further reading
For more on the upcoming season, visit the Basketball page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sports Illustrated.
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Will you attend more local college basketball games now that the team is nationally ranked?
