A recent survey of nearly one hundred Division I coaches has named Randy Bennett the standout high‑major hiring of the 2026 cycle, awarding him 32 % of the vote, with Jerrod Calhoun close behind at 30 % and Michael Malone at 16 %; Will Wade was tied for fifth place.
Bennett’s résumé at Saint Mary's reads like a masterclass in program construction: the Gaels reached the Sweet 16 in 2009‑10, captured seven AP Top 25 finishes over his tenure, and made twelve NCAA Tournament appearances, a stark contrast to the program’s pre‑Bennett record of a single Top 25 ranking and three tournament bids.
The poll’s results also underscore the divergent fortunes of the institutions he has led. Arizona State, by comparison, has managed only two NCAA Tournament appearances in the past seven seasons and has been absent from the AP Top 25 since the 2008‑09 campaign, while Bennett’s Saint Mary's posted four Top 25 finishes in the last five years.
The Coaches’ Perspective
'A proven program‑builder,' one coach remarked, highlighting Bennett’s history of sustained success that extends beyond mere tournament trips and reflects a belief that his developmental impact resonates across the sport.
Analysts note that the vote not only celebrates Bennett’s past achievements but also signals confidence in his capacity to translate that success to new environments, a prospect that could reshape expectations for future hiring cycles.