ASU MBB: Prized Prospect Sam Cunliffe to Transfer
ASU Basketball head coach Bobby Hurley put together the No. 16 in the nation recruiting class of 2016, headlined by four-star prospect Sam Cunliffe. After 10 games, Cunliffe is transferring.
Prior to arriving in Tempe, Ariz., Cunliffe had already established himself as a leader in guiding Ranier Beach High School to the Washington State Class 3A title. Once he signed, he became the highest men’s basketball recruit for ASU since James Harden.
In 10 games with the Sun Devils, Cunliffe showed on several occasions that he possesses the gift of a natural scorer. The freshman scored in double figures five times including a career-high 23 points against The Citadel.
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Though a small sample-size, Hurley had most recently expressed his pleasure with Cunliffe’s development following his career scoring night on Nov. 23.
The 6-foot-6 wing had played multiple positions on the floor this season, using his athleticism and versatility to create mismatches at shooting guard and at the 4. He also showed growth as a rebounder, a facet of his game needed by a small ASU team.
The loss of Cunliffe impacts ASU going forward with additional recruits coming in the Class of 2017. Hurley signed a pair of four-star prospects in forward Kimani Lawrence and guard Remy Martin in addition to the transfer of former Ohio State forward Mickey Mitchell.
In 10 games with ASU, Cunliffe registered season averages of 9.5 points per game, 4.8 rebounds per game and 1.4 asists per game. The Sun Devils went 6-4 in those games.
Now, the Sun Devils are off until Saturday when they take on the New Mexico State Aggies at Wells Fargo Arena. Tipoff will be at 6 p.m. MT.
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