Key moments
In a surprising development, Randy Bennett has announced that he will be leaving his position as head coach at Saint Mary’s College after 25 years to take on the role of head coach at Arizona State University. This transition, effective March 23, 2026, comes on the heels of a successful season where Bennett led the Gaels to their fourth consecutive West Coast Conference (WCC) title.
Bennett’s tenure at Saint Mary’s has been marked by remarkable achievements, including a record of 589 wins and 228 losses, making him the winningest coach in the program’s history. Under his leadership, the Gaels made 12 NCAA Tournament appearances and enjoyed 18 straight postseason appearances, solidifying the program’s reputation as a national contender.
During his time at Saint Mary’s, Bennett was recognized as WCC Coach of the Year seven times, a testament to his exceptional coaching abilities and the consistent performance of his teams. His squads were known for their strong defensive play, ranking in the top 20 in defense each year from 2021 to 2026, while also showcasing offensive prowess by ranking in the top 25 from 2016 to 2020.
With nearly 40 years of coaching experience at the NCAA Division I level, Bennett has significantly impacted the Gaels’ program. He has developed 51 players who earned All-WCC recognition, demonstrating his ability to nurture talent and build a competitive team. His home record of 319 wins and 62 losses over the past 23 seasons further illustrates his success on the court.
Bennett’s roots in Arizona, where he grew up in Mesa, add a personal dimension to his move to Arizona State University. 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.”
Reactions to Bennett’s departure have been mixed, with many expressing gratitude for his contributions to the program. Mike Matoso, a key figure at Saint Mary’s, stated, “He will be missed as a leader and coach, and has left us with a lasting legacy of excellence.” Roger Thompson, another prominent voice in the community, remarked, “Generations of Gaels—students, alumni, families, and fans alike—have rallied around what Coach Bennett built here.”
As Bennett embarks on this new chapter at Arizona State University, he leaves behind a legacy that will be felt for years to come at Saint Mary’s College. Roger Thompson encapsulated this sentiment by stating, “Today marks the close of a remarkable chapter in the history of Saint Mary’s College.” The future of both programs will be closely watched as they navigate this significant transition.