What's Happening?
Arizona State University has officially completed its assistant coaching staff for the upcoming basketball season by hiring EJ Rowland. This move comes as part of head coach Randy Bennett's efforts to solidify his team after a challenging start due to health
issues. Rowland, who played under Bennett at Saint Mary's from 2003 to 2005, brings a wealth of experience from his professional career and previous coaching roles. He joins a team of assistants including Joe Rahon, David Patrick, and Rick Croy, all of whom have strong ties to Bennett. The new staff is expected to enhance the program's recruiting and development capabilities, as evidenced by the recent commitment of JRob Croy, Rick Croy's son, to Arizona State.
Why It's Important?
The completion of the coaching staff is a significant step for Arizona State's basketball program as it prepares for the upcoming season in the competitive Big 12 conference. The addition of experienced coaches like Rowland is expected to strengthen the team's recruiting efforts and player development, which are crucial for success in college basketball. This move also highlights Bennett's strategy of building a cohesive team with shared values and strong connections, which could lead to improved performance on the court. The staff's ability to attract top talent, as demonstrated by JRob Croy's commitment, could have a lasting impact on the program's competitiveness.
What's Next?
With the coaching staff now complete, Arizona State will focus on preparing its roster for the upcoming season. The team will need to integrate new players, including transfer Paulius Murauskas, and develop strategies to compete in the Big 12. The coaching staff, led by Bennett, will likely continue to focus on recruiting and building a strong team culture. As the season approaches, the effectiveness of these efforts will be tested in games against tough conference opponents.
