Key moments
Randy Bennett has officially announced his departure from Saint Mary’s College, where he has served as head coach for 25 years, to take on the role of head coach at Arizona State University. This transition marks a significant change for both Bennett and the Saint Mary’s basketball program, which he has transformed into a national contender.
During his tenure at Saint Mary’s, Bennett achieved an impressive record of 589 wins against 228 losses, making him the winningest coach in the program’s history with a .721 winning percentage. His leadership led the Gaels to 12 NCAA Tournament appearances and an impressive streak of 18 consecutive postseason appearances, solidifying his legacy within the college basketball community.
Under Bennett’s guidance, the Gaels secured 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 for defense each year from 2021 to 2026. Additionally, Bennett’s squads ranked in the top 25 for offense from 2016 to 2020, showcasing his ability to develop well-rounded teams.
Bennett’s impact on the program extended beyond wins and losses; he has had 51 players earn All-WCC recognition during his time at Saint Mary’s. His home record of 319 wins against just 62 losses over the past 23 seasons reflects the strong foundation he built at the college.
In a statement regarding his departure, Bennett expressed the difficulty of leaving a place he has called home for so long. “This was a difficult decision after calling Saint Mary’s home for so long and building this program into a national contender each year,” he said. His sentiments were echoed by Mike Matoso, who remarked, “He will be missed as a leader and coach, and has left us with a lasting legacy of excellence.”
Roger Thompson, the college’s president, also acknowledged Bennett’s contributions, stating, “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.”
Bennett’s roots in Arizona, where he grew up in Mesa, make this new opportunity particularly significant for him. With nearly 40 years of coaching experience at the NCAA Division I level, he is poised to bring his expertise to Arizona State University, where he will look to replicate his success and continue developing young talent.
As the Saint Mary’s community reflects on Bennett’s remarkable tenure, they prepare for a new chapter in their basketball program. The search for his successor will be closely watched as the college aims to maintain the high standards set during Bennett’s leadership. Details remain unconfirmed regarding potential candidates for the head coaching position.
