Key moments
In a significant development for college basketball, Randy Bennett has announced his departure from Saint Mary’s College after an impressive 25-year tenure. Effective March 23, 2026, Bennett will take the helm as the head coach at Arizona State University, marking a new chapter in his storied coaching career.
During his time at Saint Mary’s, Bennett established himself as a cornerstone of the program, amassing a remarkable record of 589 wins against 228 losses, making him the winningest coach in the school’s history. His leadership led the Gaels to 12 NCAA Tournament appearances and an impressive streak of 18 consecutive postseason appearances, underscoring his ability to build a competitive team year after year.
Under Bennett’s guidance, the Gaels achieved unprecedented 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 among the top 20 in defense from 2021 to 2026, while also demonstrating offensive strength with top 25 rankings from 2016 to 2020.
Bennett’s impact on the program is further highlighted by the 51 players who earned All-WCC recognition during his tenure. His home record of 319 wins and only 62 losses over the past 23 seasons speaks volumes about the stronghold he maintained at Saint Mary’s.
Reflecting on his decision, Bennett stated, “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 not just a loss for the team but for the entire community that rallied around the Gaels. Roger Thompson, a representative of the college, remarked, “Generations of Gaels—students, alumni, families, and fans alike—have rallied around what Coach Bennett built here.”
Mike Matoso, another voice from the college, expressed the sentiments of many, saying, “He will be missed as a leader and coach, and has left us with a lasting legacy of excellence.” As Bennett transitions to Arizona State, he brings nearly 40 years of coaching experience at the NCAA Division I level, along with deep roots in Arizona, having grown up in Mesa.
As the community bids farewell to a beloved coach, they also celebrate the remarkable achievements he has brought to Saint Mary’s College. Roger Thompson encapsulated the moment by stating, “Today marks the close of a remarkable chapter in the history of Saint Mary’s College.” While the future holds new challenges for Bennett, his legacy at Saint Mary’s will undoubtedly endure.
