Randy Bennett Returns Home: A Modern Era for Arizona State Men’s Basketball
Arizona State University has secured one of the most consistent winners in college basketball. On March 23, 2026, Sun Devil Athletics Director Graham Rossini announced the hiring of Randy Bennett as the new head coach of the Sun Devil Men’s Basketball program. A Mesa, Arizona native, Bennett returns to his hometown to lead the program into a new era within the Big 12 conference.
Bennett arrives at ASU following a legendary 25-season tenure at Saint Mary’s, where he transformed the Gaels into a West Coast Conference (WCC) powerhouse. Sources indicate that Bennett has signed a five-year contract to lead the Sun Devils, stepping in after the departure of former coach Bobby Hurley.
A Proven Track Record of Success
Randy Bennett’s resume is defined by sustained excellence and program building. During his time at the helm of Saint Mary’s from 2001 to 2026, he established a culture of winning that few in the country can match. His achievements include:
- School-Record Wins: Bennett amassed 589 wins at Saint Mary’s, maintaining a high winning percentage.
- Conference Dominance: He led the Gaels to seven WCC regular-season championships and four WCC tournament titles.
- Postseason Consistency: Under his leadership, Saint Mary’s made 19 postseason appearances, including 12 trips to the NCAA Tournament and seven to the NIT.
- Individual Honors: Bennett was named the WCC Coach of the Year seven times.
Beyond the numbers, Bennett is recognized for his ability to identify and develop international talent and his strong recruiting ties across the West Coast, assets that Arizona State intends to leverage to compete at the highest level.
Building the Sun Devil Staff and Culture
Upon his arrival, Bennett immediately shifted his focus toward roster construction and staff assembly. The transition is not just about coaching, but about a comprehensive culture overhaul. As part of this process, Bennett has begun filling out his coaching staff, which includes the hiring of Rick Croy.
Bennett has expressed a deep personal connection to the program, noting that he grew up watching Sun Devil Basketball. In a statement regarding his hire, Bennett emphasized his drive to navigate the “new landscape” of college athletics and his excitement to meet those dedicated to helping the program reach its goals.
From Mesa to the Big 12: Bennett’s Journey
The appointment represents a full-circle moment for Bennett. Born in Mesa, Arizona, and a graduate of Westwood High School, he began his collegiate playing career at Mesa Community College under his father, Tom, before transferring to the University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego). After a playing career as a guard and various assistant coaching roles at San Diego, Pepperdine, and Saint Louis, Bennett proved his capability as a head coach over two and a half decades in California.
- Appointment Date: March 23, 2026.
- Contract Length: Five years.
- Previous Success: 589 wins and 12 NCAA Tournament appearances at Saint Mary’s.
- Strategic Goal: Cultural overhaul and roster construction for the Big 12 conference.
- Homecoming: Bennett is a Mesa, Arizona native and former Westwood High School student.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who replaced Randy Bennett at Saint Mary’s?
Saint Mary’s promoted associate head coach Mickey McConnell to replace Bennett. McConnell is a former player for Bennett (2007–2011) and has been on the Gaels’ coaching staff since 2019.
What is Randy Bennett’s overall head coaching record?
Bennett holds an overall head coaching record of 589–228 (.721).
What conference does Arizona State now compete in?
Arizona State competes in the Big 12 conference.
As Arizona State prepares for the upcoming season, the focus remains on how Bennett’s disciplined approach and proven recruiting prowess will translate to the Sun Devils’ roster and their standing in one of the nation’s most competitive conferences.