What to Expect From ASU HC Randy Bennett's Introductory Presser

In today's edition of the Sun Devils Insider Podcast, we take a look at what to expect from Bennett's press conference on Wednesday.

St. Mary's Gaels head coach Randy Bennett takes questions during a press conference ahead of the NCAA Tournament First Round game at Rocket Arena on Thursday, March 20, 2025, in Cleveland, Ohio. | Jeff Lange / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

TEMPE -- In today's episode of the Arizona State Sun Devils Insider Podcast, we take a look at what Sun Devil fans should expect from the introductory press conference for freshly hired men's basketball coach Randy Bennett.

To listen to today's podcast, view below.

Follow a small handful of key developments surrounding the Bennett hire below.

Bennett Expected to be Long Term Answer

There has been some trepidation surrounding the hiring of Bennett - particularly due to his age (63, turning 64 in June) - this should not be a major concern, however.

The fact that the Arizona native agreed to a five-year contract to begin with should lend credence to the longtime Saint Mary's head coach viewing this partnership as a long-term one. Recent reports have also backed up Bennett's supposed commitment to coaching into his 70's - which has potential to age quite well.

Jan 31, 2026; Spokane, Washington, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs head coach Mark Few, right, walks past Saint Mary's Gaels head coach Randy Bennett after a game at McCarthey Athletic Center. Gonzaga Bulldogs won 73-65. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-Imagn Images | James Snook-Imagn Images

There are several coaches that are considered "older" that remain in the NCAA tournament, including John Calipari, Tom Izzo, Kelvin Sampson, Rick Barnes, and Rick Pitino. Many of the best coaches in the sport are in the spot Bennett is set to be in roughly five years from now.

Arizona State Already Earns Major Commit

Bennett has already found success less than one day on the job.

Four-star Saint Mary's commit JRob Croy flipped his pledge to Arizona State on Tuesday afternoon - on the same day that Bennett extended him an offer. The 6'5" combo guard is considered one of the top 150 players in the class of 2026, and is a sign that the future hall of fame coach continues to be a leader that draws quality talent in.

Mar 11, 2026; Kansas City, MO, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils guard Noah Meeusen (15) drives to the basket around Iowa State Cyclones forward Milan Momcilovic (22) during the second half at T-Mobile Center. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-Imagn Images | William Purnell-Imagn Images

What are Major Checklist Items for Bennett?

Bennett's opening presser is set to be an official introduction to media and a first impression to a fanbase that is ready to consistently compete in the Big 12.

This sets the stage for many other areas that Bennett address in the aftermath of taking on the role.

Jan 31, 2026; Spokane, Washington, USA; Saint Mary's Gaels head coach Randy Bennett looks on during a game against the Gonzaga Bulldogs in the first half at McCarthey Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-Imagn Images | James Snook-Imagn Images

Checklist items include working with Rossini on numerous program-related topics including NIL, filling out a staff to support him in year one, being the face of the program when the renovations to Desert Financial Arena get underway, and targeting/offering players to enter the program via the transfer portal, all while working to retain elite talent that is already on the roster - including C Massamba Diop. The next seven months leading into the 2026-27 opener will be closely watched.