TEMPE — Arizona State has found its next head coach to take the helm of its men’s basketball program — and it’s someone familiar with the Valley.
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Mar 18, 2026; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Saint Mary’s Gaels head coach Randy Bennett speaks to reporters during a practice session ahead of the first round of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-Imagn Images
According to Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro, ASU is expected to hire longtime Saint Mary’s coach Randy Bennett — a move that signals both a homecoming and a reset for a program seeking stability in the Big 12.
A Mesa native who built Saint Mary’s into a consistent winner over the last 25 seasons, Bennett has 589 victories and has led the program to 12 NCAA Tournament appearances.
Jan 31, 2026; Spokane, Washington, USA; Saint Mary’s Gaels head coach Randy Bennett talks with an official during a game against the Gonzaga Bulldogs in the second half at McCarthey Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-Imagn Images
Arizona State finished 17-16 this season and reached the NCAA Tournament just three times in the past 10 years under former coach Bobby Hurley. In the Big 12, where player development and system consistency define success, Bennett’s track record may be exactly what the Sun Devils need to regain form.
With his ties to Arizona, Bennett’s reported hiring has energized Sun Devil fans, who are excited for the next chapter of the men’s basketball program.
Great hire pic.twitter.com/UChJirAhzR
— Just A Dude (@JustADudeAZ) March 23, 2026
Huge get for the Devils!!! Was hoping they would hire Bennett. He has about as much experience and coaching ability as you could ask for. Hoping he benefits from additional resources and exposure in the big 12
— GolfmanATM (@Golfman055) March 23, 2026
Time to open the wallets and help him field talent!
— Jonesy (@fearthefork11) March 23, 2026
Feb 22, 2025; Spokane, Washington, USA; St. Mary’s Gaels head coach Randy Bennett celebrates after a game against the Gonzaga Bulldogs at McCarthey Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-Imagn Images
Bennett now leaves a program he transformed, choosing to return to his roots — a decision that could prove valuable down the road if he can apply the lessons and experience from Saint Mary’s to the desert.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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