ASU head coach Randy Bennett ‘working through’ health situation

Arizona State men’s basketball coach Randy Bennett continues to work through a health situation, though says he’s in good hands and the momentum surrounding the program hasn’t waned because of it in a statement released Monday.

“Last week, when I arrived in Arizona, a health situation surfaced that I’m working through right now,” the head coach said. “I’m in good hands, we feel good about the plan, and I’m incredibly appreciative of the care I’ve received from the team at Mayo Clinic. Everything is under control, and I will be back at full strength very soon.”

Bennett’s statement comes after ASU postponed the head coach’s introductory press conference last Wednesday after he was “feeling under the weather dealing with an illness.”

The press conference was expected to be rescheduled this week, though no new time has been announced as of Monday.

Despite Bennett’s health situation holding him back from the press conference, the head coach did add to his staff recently with the hirings of associate head coaches Rick Croy and Joe Rahon. Croy is the father of JRob Croy, a 2026 recruit who recently flipped his commitment from Saint Mary’s to ASU.

“What I want people to know is that nothing about our momentum has changed,” Bennett said. “We are moving forward and I am excited to announce two of our associate head coaches, a duo I have a ton of trust in and who truly want to be at ASU.

“They both bring great experience, strong relationships and real energy as our program continues to grow. I am very confident in where we are going and how this initial group of coaches is coming together. I look forward to meeting everyone who is ready to make Sun Devil basketball great very soon.”

Bennett comes to Tempe after ASU opted against re-upping with former head coach Bobby Hurley, whose contract ran out.

Before taking the ASU job, Bennett spent the past 25 years at Saint Mary’s. He left the Gaels as their most winningest coach in program history behind a 589-228 record and 12 NCAA Tournament appearances.

“I think there’s his track record of winning, which is well-known, widely respected, very consistent (and it’s) incredible what he did at St. Mary’s over the 25 years there,” ASU athletic director Graham Rossini told Arizona Sports’ Burns & Gambo last week.

“And most importantly, his connection to the Valley and his want to be at Arizona State University specifically.”

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