In April 2026, freshman star Massamba Diop's announcement to leave Arizona State would be a considerable change to the program, but it would also provide a strategic angle as the team makes a transition under new head coach Randy Bennett. Bennett is known to have a disciplined, methodical approach to play, focusing on slow tempo, elite rebounding, and half-court efficiency.
Although Diop was an outstanding rim protector, Bennett generally favors experienced big men in his system, and usually favors players who have been groomed in his particular defensive patterns and screening techniques.
The loss of Diop will create a scholarship and roster room, which Bennett will use to recruit alumni of his previous school, Saint Mary’s. High-level transfer portal targets like Paulius Murauskas and Andrew McKeever have already been associated with Arizona State. They are considered an immediate fit for Bennett’s system, bringing both experience and a readiness to integrate seamlessly into his style of play.
Scholarship and NIL Flexibility
In addition to on-court considerations, Diop’s exit provides financial and strategic advantages in the modern era of college basketball, particularly in terms of NIL resources. The released funds enable Bennett to invest in scholarships and NIL funds in various portal additions. It has created a more rounded roster. This pattern accelerates the rebuilding process, ensuring the 2026–27 squad is fully aligned with Bennett’s system.
Strengthening Core Contributors
Losing a star freshman may help solidify the remainder of the roster. Now that Diop is no more in the team, the coaches can focus on keeping players like Santiago Trouet and Andrija Grbović. These players fit the way Bennett wants to play. Bennett already has some new players coming in, like JRob Croy, who will play a big role right away. Since Diop is gone, these new players can get the minutes they need to help the team be stable and get better over time.
By transforming a potential setback into an opportunity, this helps the team move forward faster and do what Randy Bennett wants to make the team successful, for a time.