Sparky Makes Cover of College Football 27, Marks ASU's Rising National Profile The College Football 27 Deluxe Edition cover features Arizona State’s iconic mascot, Sparky, holding a pitchfork in the back right corner, alongside LSU’s Mike the Tiger and Western Kentucky’s Big Red. This marks the second consecutive year ASU has appeared on the cover, following its 2026 edition featuring Coach Kenny Dillingham and former Sun Devils quarterback Sam Leavitt. The cover’s alternate version highlights Indiana’s Curt Cignetti, surrounded by Oregon’s Dante Moore and Miami’s Malachi Toney, while the standard cover showcases Toney celebrating “The U” with Moore and Ole Miss’s Kewan Lacey against a sunset backdrop. ASU’s national prominence has surged since its 2024 College Football Playoff run, which included a quarterfinal clash against Texas in the Peach Bowl. Despite a 2025 season that saw the Sun Devils finish 8-5 and lose the Sun Bowl, Coach Dillingham has led the team to a 22-17 record since taking over in 2023. The program’s momentum continued with four ASU players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, including first-round picks wide receiver Jordyn Tyson and offensive tackle Max Iheanachor. These draft successes are expected to bolster the team’s 2026 season, which includes key additions via the transfer portal, such as wide receiver Omarion Miller and quarterback Cutter Boley. Looking ahead, ASU’s 2026 schedule features high-profile matchups, including the first-ever college football game in London against Kansas on September 19, as well as games against Texas A&M (September 12) and Texas Tech (October 17), the defending Big 12 champion.#arizona_state #kenny_dillingham #sam_leavitt #jordyn_tyson #max_iheanachor
Sophomore Outfielder Landon Hairston Breaks Arizona State Home Run Record Landon Hairston became the first Arizona State baseball player to hit 28 home runs in a single season, surpassing the previous record of 27 set by Mitch Jones in 2000. The milestone occurred during a game against Cincinnati on Thursday night, where Hairston’s 28th home run helped Arizona State secure a 10-2 victory and advance to the Big 12 tournament semifinals against West Virginia. Hairston, a sophomore outfielder, rounded the bases for the 28th time this season, officially claiming the record. The achievement was highlighted by his coach, Willie Bloomquist, who praised Hairston’s growth and impact on the team. “It’s amazing, and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to coach him, recruit him, get him here, and have him essentially be the cornerstone of a very good offense for us,” Bloomquist said. “Just super proud of the way he’s handled the attention, for lack of a better term. He’s done a great job with just staying even keel.” Hairston’s performance this season included a .421 batting average, 27 home runs, and 77 RBIs. He was recently named Big 12 Player of the Year, a recognition of his dominance on the field. His growth from a freshman to a sophomore standout was noted by Bloomquist, who described Hairston’s development as a result of maturity and experience. “The year, the year older and the year stronger and all that stuff, and the experience is again just a pure hitter, right?” Bloomquist said. “The home runs will happen as a result, and I think the proof’s in the pudding with that. So he’s done a great job of it.” Hairston’s journey to this milestone began with his freshman season, during which he started 49 games and posted a .333 batting average with four home runs, including his first against Cincinnati.#big_12_tournament #arizona_state #willie_bloomquist #landon_hairston #barry_bonds
Arizona State Baseball Advances to Big 12 Tournament Semifinals Arizona State advanced to the Big 12 tournament semifinals after defeating Cincinnati 10-2 in the quarterfinals on May 21. The Sun Devils’ victory was highlighted by sophomore Landon Hairston’s record-breaking home run, which broke the school’s single-season mark of 27 set by Mitch Jones in 2000. Hairston, who had struggled earlier in the season, tied the record during the regular-season finale and then surpassed it in the fourth inning against Cincinnati. His 349-foot home run gave Arizona State a 7-1 lead and secured the win. The game, played at Surprise Stadium, featured multiple home runs from Arizona State. Junior Dominic Smaldino started the scoring in the first inning with a two-run home run, giving the Sun Devils a 2-1 lead. Hairston added a run in the second inning on an infield error, and the offense continued to dominate. By the third inning, Arizona State had extended its lead to 5-1 after Matt Polk singled up the middle to drive in Smaldino. The Sun Devils added another run in the fourth, and Hairston’s record-breaking home run was followed by a solo home run from Polk in the seventh inning. A two-run double from Dean Toigo in the eighth inning sealed the victory. Arizona State’s pitching staff held Cincinnati in check, with sophomore Taylor Penn earning the win in relief. Penn pitched three scoreless innings, striking out five batters with no walks. The Sun Devils totaled 10 runs on 12 hits, scoring in six different innings. Coach Willie Bloomquist praised the team’s offensive output and ability to capitalize on defensive errors. “We did a really good job on the bases,” Bloomquist said. “We swung the bats decent as well.” The win set up a semifinal matchup between Arizona State and No.#big_12_tournament #arizona_state #willie_bloomquist #landon_hairston #surprise_stadium
Molly Miller back with team ahead of ASU’s First Four matchup Arizona State women’s basketball head coach Molly Miller has rejoined her team in preparation for the program’s First Four game against Virginia on Thursday. Miller had not traveled with the team earlier in the week due to illness, but the Sun Devils remain hopeful she will be available for the crucial matchup. The team’s performance under Miller’s leadership in her first season was notable, with a 24-10 record securing one of the final at-large bids for the NCAA Tournament. A victory over Virginia on Thursday at 6 p.m. on ESPN2 would advance the Sun Devils to the Round of 64. Associate head coach Stephanie Norman, who temporarily assumed coaching duties during Miller’s absence, described the situation as “precarious.” Norman emphasized the team’s reliance on Miller’s guidance, stating, “Our leader is not here, and we’re hoping for the best, so she can recover and be with our team. That’s kind of the status—it’s hour to hour.” Despite the challenges, Norman highlighted the team’s focus on the upcoming game, noting, “We miss her dearly, but at the same time, we have a job to do.” Norman, a former ASU player (1984-88), previously spent 18 seasons on the Louisville coaching staff, where the Cardinals reached the Sweet 16 or better 12 times. Her experience and leadership have been critical in maintaining the team’s momentum during Miller’s absence. The Sun Devils’ path to the tournament remains uncertain, but the team’s determination to secure a spot in the next round is evident. As the First Four game approaches, the focus remains on executing the game plan and leveraging the support of the coaching staff to overcome the temporary setback.#ncaa_tournament #arizona_state #first_four #molly_miller #stephanie_norman
Illness keeps Arizona State's Miller home for NCAA tournament Arizona State women's basketball coach Molly Miller did not travel with her team to Iowa for its NCAA tournament game due to an illness. School officials expressed optimism that Miller would be able to rejoin the Sun Devils in time for their First Four matchup against Virginia on Thursday in Iowa City. Associate head coach Stephanie Norman, who previously spent 18 years as a coach at Louisville, will oversee most of the team’s preparations while Miller remains at home. Norman’s role will involve managing in-game strategies and ensuring the team is ready for the tournament matchup. This marks Arizona State’s first appearance in the NCAA Tournament since 2019, which coincided with Miller’s first season as head coach. Prior to joining Arizona State, Miller guided Grand Canyon University to its inaugural NCAA tournament appearance in 2025. The move to Arizona State represents a significant step in her coaching career, as she continues to build the program’s reputation. The Sun Devils’ participation in the tournament highlights the team’s progress under Miller’s leadership, though the absence of their head coach for the initial game adds uncertainty. The coaching staff’s ability to adapt and maintain focus will be critical as the team navigates the challenges of the postseason.#ncaa_tournament #iowa_city #arizona_state #molly_miller #stephanie_norman
Randy Bennett named Arizona State basketball coach after 25 seasons at Saint Mary's Randy Bennett has been appointed as the new head coach for Arizona State’s men’s basketball team, marking a major coaching transition in college basketball. The 63-year-old veteran, who spent 25 years leading Saint Mary’s, will leave the Gaels after guiding them to consistent success as a mid-major program. His final game with Saint Mary’s was a 63-50 loss to No. 10 seed Texas A&M in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Tournament. Bennett’s tenure at Saint Mary’s began in 2001, when he took over a program with limited NCAA Tournament history. During his time, the Gaels became a regular presence in March Madness, qualifying for the Big Dance 12 times. The team achieved at least 26 wins in each of the past five seasons and reached the Sweet 16 in 2010 as a 10th seed. His overall record of 589-228 includes 7 West Coast Conference regular season titles and 4 tournament championships. Bennett also mentored future NBA stars like Patty Mills and Matthew Dellavedova. Saint Mary’s became a dominant force in the West Coast Conference, often competing with Gonzaga and defeating the Bulldogs. The program’s ability to consistently send two teams to the NCAA Tournament was rare for mid-majors. Bennett’s success earned him a reputation as one of the most effective coaches in the conference, with over 75% of his games resulting in wins. Bennett’s move to Arizona State comes after 11 seasons under Bobby Hurley, during which the Sun Devils struggled to maintain competitiveness. Arizona State made the NCAA Tournament only three times under Hurley, all as a No. 11 seed, and its last major achievement was a Sweet 16 run in 1995.#ncaa_tournament #west_coast_conference #arizona_state #saint_mary_s #randy_bennett
Arizona State Hires Randy Bennett as Head Coach; Saint Mary's to Promote Mickey McConnell Arizona State has announced the hiring of Randy Bennett as its new head basketball coach, marking a significant shift in the program's leadership. Bennett, 63, will take over after Bobby Hurley, who led the Sun Devils for 11 seasons, had his contract not renewed following this past season. The decision comes as part of Arizona State's broader efforts to strengthen its athletic programs, which have faced scrutiny in recent years. Bennett, a native of Arizona, is set to receive a five-year contract, according to sources. His hiring is expected to bring a mix of experience and strategic vision to the Sun Devils. Saint Mary's, where Bennett has coached since 2001, is anticipated to promote associate head coach Mickey McConnell as his replacement. McConnell, who has worked alongside Bennett since 2019, will step into the role, continuing the Gaels' coaching legacy. In a statement, Bennett expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, "It was going to take a special situation for us to leave Saint Mary's, and I am energized, driven, and focused on taking over Sun Devil Basketball, a program I am very familiar with and grew up watching." He highlighted the competitive nature of the Big 12 conference and his commitment to helping the Sun Devils achieve their goals. Bennett's tenure at Saint Mary's has been marked by consistent success. Since assuming the head coaching role in 2001, he has guided the Gaels to 12 NCAA tournament appearances, including a Sweet 16 run in 2010 as a 10-seed. The program, which had only three NCAA tournament appearances before Bennett's arrival, has become a dominant force in the West Coast Conference.#arizona_state #bobby_hurley #randy_bennett #saint_mary_s #mickey_mcconnell
Virginia edges Arizona State in NCAA tournament First Four Kymora Johnson scored 17 points, including a go-ahead 3-pointer with 30.6 seconds remaining, as Virginia defeated Arizona State 57-55 in the NCAA tournament First Four on Thursday night. The Cavaliers, seeded 10th, advanced to face seventh-seeded Georgia in the next round, marking their first NCAA tournament appearance since 2018 under head coach Amaka Agugua-Hamilton. Johnson’s clutch 3-pointer, Virginia’s first of the second half in 10 attempts, gave the Cavaliers a 54-51 lead. With 5.3 seconds left, Johnson added a free throw to seal the victory. Arizona State’s Jyah LoVett lost control of the ball in the paint as the clock expired, ending the game. Johnson also recorded 10 rebounds for her ninth career double-double. Caitlin Weimar contributed 11 points off the bench, and Romi Levy added 10. Arizona State, seeded 10th, saw Marley Washenitz score 19 points on five 3-pointers, while McKinna Brackens and Heloisa Carrera each tallied 10 points. Gabby Elliott, Arizona State’s leading scorer, made just three of 13 field goals, finishing with 11 points and nine rebounds. The Sun Devils, making their first NCAA tournament appearance since 2019, were coached by first-year head coach Molly Miller. The game saw Arizona State trail by as many as 10 points in the second half before rallying. Elliott’s jumper cut the deficit to 48-46 with 3:18 remaining, but Virginia’s defense held firm. The loss ended Arizona State’s season, while Virginia advanced to the next round, continuing its resurgence under Agugua-Hamilton.#virginia #arizona_state #kymora_johnson #amaka_agugua_hamilton #molly_miller
Pair of Double-Doubles Power Virginia to First Four Victory The 10th-seeded Virginia women’s basketball team (20-11) secured its first NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament victory since 2018 with a 57-55 win over 10th-seeded Arizona State (24-11) on Thursday night (March 19) at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. The Cavaliers advanced to face seventh-seeded Georgia (22-9) in the next round on Saturday (March 21) at the same venue, with the game set for 1:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2. Kymora Johnson led Virginia with 17 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists, while Caitlin Weimar added 11 points and 12 rebounds off the bench. The game’s momentum shifted in the first quarter as Virginia surged ahead with a 7-0 run late in the period, taking a seven-point lead. The Cavaliers entered the second quarter with a 19-14 advantage after shooting 7-for-13 from the field in the opening 10 minutes. Both teams struggled offensively in the second quarter, with Virginia hitting just 26% of their shots and Arizona State managing only 14%. Virginia extended its lead to nine points by halftime, outscoring the Sun Devils 10-2 in the frame. The Cavaliers held Arizona State without a basket on their final seven attempts of the half, maintaining a 30-22 lead at the break. Arizona State responded with a 50% shooting performance in the third quarter but was limited to just eight field-goal attempts as Virginia forced six turnovers. The Sun Devils cut the deficit to four points by the start of the fourth quarter, trailing 40-36. After trailing by eight points with 4:28 remaining, Arizona State launched a late rally, capped by a 3-pointer with 41 seconds left to tie the game at 51-51. Kymora Johnson answered with a clutch 3-pointer moments later, giving Virginia a 57-55 lead.#arizona_state #carver_hawkeye_arena #kymora_johnson #caitlin_weimar #amaka_agugua_hamilton
March Madness live updates, scores, bracket: Women's NCAA tournament First Four wraps up with Virginia and Southern advancing The final two First Four matchups in the NCAA women’s basketball tournament concluded on Thursday, securing the 64-team field for the upcoming tournament. In the Sacramento 4 region, Southern University and Samford faced off for the No. 16 seed, while Virginia and Arizona State contested for the No. 10 seed. The results of these games determined the final spots in the first-round bracket. Virginia advanced to face No. 7 seed Georgia after a hard-fought 57-55 victory over Arizona State. The Cavaliers overcame a late rally by the Sun Devils, who tied the game at 51-51 on a 3-pointer by Marley Washenitz with 41 seconds remaining. Kymora Johnson answered with a 3-pointer for Virginia, and the Cavaliers held off Arizona State’s attempts to tie the game. Washenitz led Arizona State with 19 points, while Johnson dominated for Virginia with 17 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 steals. Caitlin Weimar added 11 points and 12 rebounds for Virginia. Southern University secured its spot in the tournament with a 65-53 win over Samford. The Jaguars will face No. 1 seed South Carolina on Saturday. Southern took control in the fourth quarter, outscoring Samford 14-2 over the final seven minutes. Jaylia Reed and DeMya Porter each scored 15 points for Southern, with Porter grabbing 12 rebounds. Briana Rivera led Samford with 16 points, though the Bulldogs shot 36% from the field, including 8-of-27 on 3-pointers. Other developments from the First Four included No. 16 Missouri State and No. 11 Nebraska advancing to the 64-team field. Missouri State will face No. 1 seed Texas, while Nebraska will meet No. 6 seed Baylor.#virginia #arizona_state #samford #southern_university #ncaa_womens_basketball_tournament
Arizona State Sources Say Bobby Hurley's Departure News Is Premature Arizona State Sun Devils basketball coach Bobby Hurley's potential exit from the program has been labeled "premature" by school officials, despite widespread reports suggesting he may not return for a 12th season. The news came just days before the start of the Big 12 Men’s Basketball Tournament, with Hurley’s future remaining uncertain as he nears the end of his contract. The school has not offered an extension, leaving his status in limbo for the 2025-26 season. While the decision to move on is often a signal of impending change, ASU sources emphasized that the timing of the speculation was premature. Hurley’s team is set to face Baylor in the tournament’s first round on March 10, with the game scheduled for 9:30 a.m. MST at T-Mobile Center. The Sun Devils, with a 16-15 record, finished their regular season last week, including a notable upset over No. 14 Kansas on March 3, which was widely considered Hurley’s final home game as head coach. The school could be waiting for the team’s tournament performance before making an official announcement, as the elimination of the squad might influence the timing of any decision. Hurley, 54, joined Arizona State in 2015, succeeding Herb Sendek as head coach and becoming the university’s 14th in that role. Prior to ASU, he led the University at Buffalo for two seasons, compiling a 42-20 record (67.7%). At Arizona State, his overall record stands at 184-166, but the past three years have been his most challenging tenure. The Sun Devils have posted a 43-53 record in that span, with a 19-39 mark in conference play.#t_mobile_center #arizona_state #bobby_hurley #big_12_men_s_basketball_tournament #university_at_buffalo
Bobby Hurley will not return as Arizona State men’s basketball coach after completing his 11th season with the Sun Devils. The Field of 68’s Jeff Goodman reported the news Monday, citing that Hurley’s contract, set to expire at the end of June, will not be renewed. On3’s Pete Nakos confirmed the report, though Hurley and ASU athletic director Graham Rossini plan to meet after the Big 12 Tournament to discuss their future. ASU’s season ended with a 16-15 record overall and a 7-11 mark in the Big 12. The team’s final game of the regular season was a 9-2 start for Hurley, followed by a 9-11 stretch that dashed NCAA Tournament hopes. A late surge included three wins in four games, including an upset over then-No. 13 Texas Tech, but two losses to Baylor and TCU sealed their fate. Despite the struggles, the Sun Devils remain in the Big 12 Tournament, set to face Baylor in a matchup starting at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday. Hurley’s tenure at ASU has been marked by both success and challenges. His overall record of 184-166 (.526) ranks second in program history, behind Ned Wulk’s 405-257 record from 1958 to 1982. Under Hurley, ASU made three NCAA Tournament appearances but never advanced past the first round. The highlight of his career at the school came in 2017-18, when the “Guard U” team led by Tra Holder, Kodi Justice, and Shannon Evans started 12-0, including wins over No. 2 Kansas and No. 15 Xavier. The team reached No. 3 in the AP Top 25 rankings but fell short in the postseason, losing four of its last five regular-season games and a First Four matchup against Syracuse. Hurley’s recent seasons have seen mixed results. After reaching 20 wins in consecutive years, the team’s momentum was disrupted by the pandemic, which canceled a likely NCAA Tournament bid.#big_12_tournament #bobby_hurley #arizona_state #graham_rossini #field_of_68
