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 the Gaels, where Bennett has been a transformative figure in the program’s history.
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. His leadership not only led the Gaels to 12 NCAA Tournament appearances but also secured 18 consecutive postseason berths, a testament to his ability to build a competitive team year after year.
Under Bennett’s guidance, the Gaels achieved remarkable success, including winning the West Coast Conference (WCC) title for the fourth consecutive year in 2026. His teams were consistently recognized for their defensive prowess, ranking in the top 20 in defense from 2021 to 2026. Additionally, his squads ranked in the top 25 in offensive performance from 2016 to 2020, showcasing his well-rounded coaching capabilities.
Throughout his career, Bennett has been honored as the WCC Coach of the Year on seven occasions, reflecting his peers’ recognition of his contributions to the sport. His impact extended beyond wins and losses; he has mentored 51 players who earned All-WCC recognition, further solidifying his legacy within the program.
Notably, Bennett’s roots in Arizona, where he grew up in Mesa, add a personal dimension to his move to Arizona State University. With nearly 40 years of coaching experience at the NCAA Division I level, his transition is expected to bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Sun Devils, who are looking to elevate their program.
In a heartfelt statement, Bennett expressed the difficulty of his decision, saying, “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 has elicited strong reactions from the Saint Mary’s community, with Athletic Director Mike Matoso stating, “He will be missed as a leader and coach, and has left us with a lasting legacy of excellence.”
Roger Thompson, the college president, echoed these sentiments, noting, “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,” highlighting the profound impact Bennett has had on the institution.
As the Saint Mary’s community reflects on Bennett’s remarkable tenure, anticipation builds around his future at Arizona State University. While details remain unconfirmed regarding his initial plans for the Sun Devils, the basketball world will be watching closely as he embarks on this new chapter in his storied coaching career.
