Full Breakdown
Randy Bennett Returns to Arizona as Arizona State's New Head Basketball Coach
3/24/2026, 9:57:45 AM
Transition from Saint Mary's to Arizona State
Randy Bennett has been appointed as the new head coach for the Arizona State University (ASU) men's basketball team, marking a significant transition after 25 successful seasons at Saint Mary's College. Bennett, who has a record of 589-228 and led the Gaels to 12 NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Sweet 16 run, is returning to his roots in Mesa, Arizona. His hiring comes after ASU decided not to renew the contract of Bobby Hurley, who coached the Sun Devils for 11 seasons, achieving a 185-167 record and three NCAA Tournament appearances.
Bennett's contract with ASU is a five-year deal reportedly worth over $3 million in the first year. Athletic Director Graham Rossini emphasized Bennett's extensive experience and strong recruiting relationships, particularly on the West Coast and internationally, as key factors in the decision. “Coach Bennett is one of the most accomplished and respected coaches in college basketball,” Rossini stated.
Achievements at Saint Mary's
During his tenure at Saint Mary's, Bennett transformed the program into a competitive mid-major powerhouse. He secured seven West Coast Conference (WCC) regular-season titles and was named WCC Coach of the Year seven times. His teams consistently ranked in the top 20 for both offensive and defensive efficiency, showcasing his ability to develop talent and maintain competitive squads. Notably, Bennett's teams won at least 20 games in 18 of the last 19 seasons, with a peak of 30 wins in the 2017-18 season.
Bennett's success also included a focus on international recruiting, producing several NBA players, including Patty Mills and Matthew Dellavedova. His departure from Saint Mary's follows a season where the Gaels finished 27-6 and were eliminated in the first round of the NCAA Tournament by Texas A&M.
Challenges Ahead at ASU
Bennett steps into a challenging environment at ASU, which has struggled since joining the Big 12 Conference, finishing with a losing record in both of its seasons. The Sun Devils were picked last in the conference but managed to tie for 12th place this past season. The program's last significant achievement was a Sweet 16 run in 1995, and the team has not advanced past the first round of the NCAA Tournament in 13 years.
Bennett's familiarity with the Valley and his established recruiting connections are seen as vital assets in revitalizing the Sun Devils' program. He expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, “I am energized, driven, and focused on taking over Sun Devil Basketball, a program I am very familiar with and grew up watching.”
Criticism and Expectations
While Bennett's hiring has been met with optimism, some critics point to the challenges he faces in a competitive Big 12 landscape. The Sun Devils' recent history of instability and the need to retain talent amid the transfer portal dynamics add to the pressure. ASU's commitment to enhancing its athletic programs, including a $100 million renovation of Desert Financial Arena, reflects a broader strategy to improve competitiveness across sports.
What's Next
As Bennett prepares to take the helm, the transfer portal opens on April 7, 2026, presenting immediate challenges in roster management. ASU's underclassmen will be looking to make decisions about their futures based on the new coaching direction. The upcoming season will be pivotal for both Bennett and the Sun Devils as they aim to establish a new era of success in Arizona State basketball.
Verbatim Quotes
“It was going to take a special situation for us to leave Saint Mary’s, and I am energized, driven, and focused on taking over Sun Devil Basketball, a program I am very familiar with and grew up watching,” — Randy Bennett, ASU Head Coach
“com/BUkgItfJ14 — Jeff Borzello (@jeffborzello) March 23, 2026 “Coach Bennett is one of the most accomplished and respected coaches in college basketball.” — Graham Rossini, ASU Athletic Director
“Just as important, he brings a genuine enthusiasm for leading the Sun Devil men’s basketball program.” — Graham Rossini, ASU Athletic Director
