Can Randy Bennett's Methodical Style Conquer the Big 12?

Arizona State men's basketball is undergoing a significant transition with the hiring of Randy Bennett as head coach, replacing Bobby Hurley. Bennett, a respected figure known for his success with Saint Mary's College, brings a 25-season coaching tenure, including 12 NCAA Tournament appearances and a Sweet Sixteen run in 2010. His arrival marks a shift from Hurley's tenure, which saw limited NCAA Tournament success despite recruiting top talent.

Bennett is recognized for a defense-heavy, methodical style that proved effective in the West Coast Conference. The primary question for ASU is whether this approach can translate to the high-octane Big 12, a conference demanding offensive prowess and consistent high-level performance. While Saint Mary's excelled defensively, averaging 64.5 points allowed per game, their scoring average of 77.3 points would place them lower in the Big 12 standings.

Historically, Bennett's teams have struggled against top-tier opponents, with only three NCAA Tournament wins against power conference teams. In contrast, Hurley's Sun Devils often delivered notable upsets against ranked opponents. Bennett acknowledges the need for scoring while emphasizing defense, rebounding, and ball control as foundational elements for success. The upcoming season opener on November 2 will provide the first glimpse into how Bennett's strategies fare against the Big 12's elite competition.