TEMPE, Ariz. — After 11 seasons leading the Arizona State Sun Devils men’s basketball program, Bobby Hurley will not have his contract renewed, the university announced Wednesday. The decision comes hours after a decisive 91-42 loss to No. 7 Iowa State in the Big 12 Tournament, marking the most lopsided game in Big 12 history. The news, first reported by Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro, signals a new chapter for the program and concludes an era defined by both successes and challenges.
Athletic director Graham Rossini expressed gratitude for Hurley’s contributions, stating, “Bobby Hurley has made incredible contributions to the sport of basketball, and that certainly includes many memorable moments during his time as our head coach.” Rossini added, “While we will not be extending his contract, we are so grateful for the 11 years that Coach, Leslie, Cameron, Sydney and Bobby Jr. Spent with us at ASU. We wish Coach well moving forward and we are thankful for his leadership while at ASU.”
Hurley finished his tenure at Arizona State with a record of 185-167 (.526), becoming the second-winningest coach in program history, trailing only Ned Wulk, who amassed 405 wins between 1958 and 1982 according to Sun Devil Athletics. He guided the Sun Devils to three NCAA Tournament appearances, including consecutive bids in 2018 and 2019. A fourth tournament berth was likely in 2020, but the season was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite the program’s successes under Hurley, including multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, a return to March Madness this season was widely considered crucial for a contract extension. The Sun Devils concluded the 2025-26 season with a 17-16 overall record and a 7-11 mark in Big 12 play, finishing 12th in the conference after being projected to finish last in the 16-team league as reported by ESPN.
Following Wednesday’s loss, Hurley reflected on his time at Arizona State, expressing a sense of fulfillment. “It’s been a long road. It’s been a special time,” Hurley told reporters. “Two of my kids graduated from ASU. I’ve had the opportunity to coach some fantastic young men. Had some terrific moments over the years and it’s a great university, great administration.” He added, “I don’t have any regrets. I laid it out on the line to the best that I could every night… I did it until the last buzzer sounded.”
Hurley took the helm at Arizona State in 2016, succeeding Herb Sendek. His tenure saw a revitalization of the program, bringing increased national attention and competitive success. However, the Sun Devils were unable to advance past the first round of the NCAA Tournament during his time as coach.
Arizona State now joins a growing list of high-major programs seeking new leadership, including Kansas State, Syracuse, Boston College, Providence, and Georgia Tech according to ESPN. The search for Hurley’s replacement is expected to begin immediately.
Hurley will be on paid administrative exit through the end of his contract in June.
What comes next for Arizona State basketball remains to be seen, but the university will undoubtedly seek a coach who can build upon Hurley’s foundation and lead the program to sustained success in the competitive Big 12 Conference.
Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.
