Arizona State football drew attention at this year’s Big 12 Media Days, where head coach Kenny Dillingham took the podium to outline the program’s recent trajectory.
While the Sun Devils have experienced a wave of player turnover, Dillingham noted that the coaching staff has remained unchanged, with no departures and only new faces added this season.
Staff continuity pays off
He argued that such continuity brings practical advantages, from streamlined preparation routines to more predictable work schedules that allow coaches more time off.
The team’s performance on the field backs up the narrative; over the past two seasons the program has secured 19 victories, a milestone that has attracted additional investment.
Financial support has followed the on‑field gains, including a $10 million endowment and plans for a dedicated indoor practice facility that will give players a climate‑controlled environment.
Dillingham also emphasized that continuous improvement requires collaboration among the athletic department, university leadership and the broader campus community.
A new energy deal for the conference
A key symbol of that collaboration is the Pat Tillman Leadership Council, which represents the team at media events and has helped embed a culture of accountability and ambition.
Outside the program, the Big 12 announced a multiyear partnership with Monster Energy, branding the conference’s football schedule as the ‘Monster Energy Big 12 Football’ and adding sponsor patches to jerseys and field logos.
Commissioner Brett Yormark said the agreement, valued at roughly $20 million, is expected to funnel about $1 million per school annually, a boost that could further accelerate facility projects and recruiting efforts.