He succeeds Bobby Hurley, whose long tenure at ASU ended after 11 seasons and three NCAA tournament appearances, marking a notable program transition.

Bennett has coached 28 players to All-WCC honors, including 39 First Team selections and nine honorable mentions, with six players earning WCC Defensive Player of the Year awards.

An Arizona native from Mesa, Bennett has deep local ties, including time at Mesa Community College and Westwood High School, which could bolster recruitment and fit at ASU.

Bennett grew up in Mesa, began college at Mesa Community College under his father, and finished at the University of San Diego, highlighting his long-standing local roots.

Bennett’s tenure at Saint Mary’s since 2001 features 12 NCAA tournament appearances and multiple conference titles, underscoring a proven mid-major track record as he moves to a Power 5 program.

Rossini emphasized Bennett’s West Coast recruiting connections and long-standing success, framing the hire as a fit with ASU’s elevated athletic ambitions.

Bennett, 63, signs a five-year deal at ASU, with the first-year salary north of $3 million, while Saint Mary’s would receive a buyout of under $200,000.

The move follows ASU not renewing Bobby Hurley’s contract, with Bennett reportedly in advanced negotiations to take over the program.

ASU Athletic Director Graham Rossini praised Bennett’s sustained success, recruiting strength, and ability to develop international talent, expressing enthusiasm for leading the Sun Devil program.

Arizona State has hired Randy Bennett away from Saint Mary’s to become the Sun Devils’ next men’s basketball coach, signaling a high-profile local hire with Big 12 ambitions ahead.

Bennett’s strength as a developer of guards and his track record of recruiting and nurturing talent could reshape ASU’s approach in the Big 12.