Key moments
In a significant development for college basketball, Randy Bennett has announced his departure from Saint Mary’s College after 25 years to become the head coach at Arizona State University. This transition, effective March 23, 2026, marks the end of an era for Bennett, who has been a pivotal figure in the growth and success of the Gaels’ basketball program.
During his tenure at Saint Mary’s, Bennett established himself as the winningest coach in the program’s history, boasting an impressive record of 589 wins against 228 losses, translating to a .721 winning percentage. Under his leadership, the Gaels made 12 NCAA Tournament appearances and achieved 18 consecutive postseason berths, showcasing his ability to consistently elevate the team’s performance on a national stage.
In recent years, Bennett’s teams have been recognized for their defensive prowess, ranking in the top 20 for defense each year from 2021 to 2026. Additionally, the Gaels secured the West Coast Conference (WCC) title for the fourth consecutive year in 2026, further solidifying Bennett’s legacy as a coach who not only wins games but also builds championship-caliber teams.
With nearly 40 years of coaching experience at the NCAA Division I level, Bennett’s impact extends beyond mere statistics. He has been named WCC Coach of the Year seven times and has seen 51 of his players earn All-WCC recognition during his time at Saint Mary’s. His teams have also enjoyed a remarkable home record of 319 wins against just 62 losses over the past 23 seasons, a testament to his ability to create a formidable home-court advantage.
Bennett’s roots in Arizona, having grown up in Mesa, make this new role at Arizona State particularly significant for him. His decision to leave Saint Mary’s was not made lightly, as he expressed in a statement: “This was a difficult decision after calling Saint Mary’s home for so long and building this program into a national contender each year.” His departure is seen as a loss for the Gaels, with Mike Matoso, a key figure in the program, stating, “He will be missed as a leader and coach, and has left us with a lasting legacy of excellence.”
Roger Thompson, the college’s athletic director, reflected on Bennett’s impact, saying, “Generations of Gaels—students, alumni, families, and fans alike—have rallied around what Coach Bennett built here.” He added, “Today marks the close of a remarkable chapter in the history of Saint Mary’s College.” These sentiments underscore the profound influence Bennett has had on the community and the program.
As Bennett embarks on this new chapter at Arizona State University, the college basketball landscape will be watching closely. His track record of success and deep understanding of the game will undoubtedly be assets in his new role. Details remain unconfirmed about his coaching staff and plans for the upcoming season, but expectations are high for what he will bring to the Sun Devils.
