Preview: Utah Visits Arizona State in Key Big 12 Clash TEMPE, Ariz. (Interstat) — A pivotal Big 12 women’s basketball matchup with postseason implications is set for Wednesday night when the Utah Utes visit the Arizona State Sun Devils at Wells Fargo Arena. Both teams are looking to rebound from narrow road losses to ranked opponents this past Saturday. Utah (16-8, 6-5 Big 12) fell 79-72 to Iowa State, while Arizona State (19-6, 8-4) dropped a 67-64 decision at Baylor. The contest is a quick rematch of a thrilling Dec. 31 encounter in Salt Lake City, which Arizona State won 69-68. That result adds a layer of urgency for the Utes, who have lost three of their last five games and seek to bolster their conference standing. Utah will lean on the dynamic play of guard Reese Ross, who is coming off a 22-point performance against Iowa State. Over her last seven games, Ross has averaged 11.3 points, showcasing her ability to score in bursts. She will need support from teammates like Lani White, who added 19 points in the loss to the Cyclones. The Sun Devils counter with one of the league’s most consistent scorers in guard Gabby Elliott. She poured in 25 points at Baylor and has averaged 19.6 points per game over her last seven outings, including a 22-point effort in the January win over Utah. Her backcourt battle with Ross will be a central focus. Arizona State has been strong at home this season, boasting a 10-2 record in Tempe. Their defense, which allows just 60.2 points per game, will be tested by a Utah offense averaging 68.7 points. With both teams jockeying for position in a crowded Big 12 race and seeking to improve their NCAA Tournament seeding, Wednesday’s showdown carries significant weight. A win for Arizona State would solidify its top-four conference standing, while a Utah victory would provide a crucial Quad 1 road result. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. MST at Wells Fargo Arena.