The search for Arizona State's next head basketball coach is on, and it's a fascinating one. With Bobby Hurley's departure, the school faces a challenging task of finding a replacement who can navigate the unique obstacles that hindered Hurley's success. From the looming football dominance to the arena renovations, the new coach will have to tackle a host of issues. But who are the leading candidates to take on this role? Let's dive in and explore the top contenders, each bringing their own unique strengths and potential challenges to the table. Personally, I think this search is a fascinating one, and I can't wait to see who emerges as the new leader of the Sun Devils. The candidates are diverse, and each brings something different to the table. One thing that immediately stands out is the importance of understanding the unique context of Arizona State. The school's resources are heavily tilted towards football, and the arena renovations are a long-term project. These factors will significantly influence the new coach's strategy and approach. Now, let's take a closer look at the leading candidates and what makes them stand out. Randy Bennett, the head coach at Saint Mary's, is a strong contender. With a stellar record and a strong connection to the area, he could be a perfect fit. However, his NCAA Tournament record is a bit of a concern, and some speculate that he might be looking for a change after 2.5 decades with the same program. Then there's Jerrod Calhoun, the head coach at Utah State. With a strong track record of developing players and a style reminiscent of Bob Huggins, he could be a dark horse candidate. But will he be able to replicate his success at a new school? Jase Coburn, the head coach at Portland State, is another interesting option. With a strong connection to the area and a young, up-and-coming program, he could be a strong candidate for a Kenny Dillingham-type hire. However, his team's lack of NCAA Tournament success might be a red flag. Eric Olen, the head coach at New Mexico, brings a unique analytics-driven approach to the table. With a strong track record of success and a focus on player development, he could be a strong contender. But will he be able to replicate his success in a more competitive conference? Finally, there's Josh Schertz, the head coach at Saint Louis. With a strong track record of building programs and a focus on three-point shooting, he could be a strong candidate. However, his NCAA Tournament record is a bit of a concern, and his team's reliance on three-point shooting might not be sustainable. In my opinion, the search for Arizona State's next head basketball coach is a fascinating one, and I can't wait to see who emerges as the new leader of the Sun Devils. The candidates are diverse, and each brings something different to the table. The key will be for the school to find a coach who can navigate the unique challenges of the program and build a successful, sustainable program for years to come.
