After 11 seasons as the head coach of Arizona State’s men’s basketball team, Bobby Hurley’s future with the Sun Devils is uncertain. Rumors have been swirling that the university may be looking to make a change, but is there any truth to these speculations?
Initially, it seemed that Hurley’s tenure at Arizona State would continue for at least another season. The Sun Devils started the 2025-26 season strong with a record of 9-2. Fans and analysts were hopeful that this would be the year that Arizona State would break through and make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. However, that momentum did not last long.
A tough loss to UCLA in early January sparked a downward spiral for the Sun Devils. They went on to lose three more games in a row, slipping back into their old habit of inconsistency. This was a major disappointment for the team and its fans, who had high hopes for the season.
But it was not all bad news for Arizona State. In February, the team managed to pull off a huge upset against then-No. 13 Texas Tech. This win gave a glimmer of hope and showed that the Sun Devils were capable of competing with some of the top teams in the country. However, it was not enough to salvage the season.
As the regular season came to a close, Arizona State finished with a record of 17-14, falling short of expectations. The team did not receive an invitation to the NCAA tournament, and instead had to settle for a spot in the NIT. This was a disappointing end to what had started as a promising season.
With the disappointing end to the season, questions began to arise about Hurley’s future with the Sun Devils. Some fans and analysts have been calling for his dismissal, citing the team’s inconsistency and failure to make it to the NCAA tournament. But is this really the right move for Arizona State?
First and foremost, it is important to remember that Hurley has been at the helm of the Sun Devils for 11 seasons. During his tenure, he has led the team to five NCAA tournament appearances, including a trip to the Sweet 16 in 2021. He has also helped develop several players who have gone on to have successful careers in the NBA.
Additionally, the Sun Devils have faced several challenges this season, including injuries and a tough schedule. Despite these obstacles, Hurley has continued to lead the team with determination and resilience. He has also been a positive influence on his players, teaching them important life lessons both on and off the court.
It is also worth noting that Arizona State’s basketball program has seen significant improvement under Hurley’s leadership. He has brought in top recruits and has elevated the team’s national profile. His passion and dedication to the program have been evident throughout his tenure.
So, has Arizona State really fired Bobby Hurley after 11 seasons? The answer is no. Despite the disappointing end to the 2025-26 season, the university has not made any official statements about Hurley’s future. In fact, there have been reports that the university is still committed to Hurley and plans to work with him to address the team’s issues and improve for next season.
In conclusion, it is clear that Hurley’s future with Arizona State is not in jeopardy. The rumors of his firing are simply that – rumors. While the team’s inconsistency and failure to make it to the NCAA tournament are valid concerns, it is important to remember Hurley’s contributions to the program over the past 11 seasons. He has been a dedicated and passionate coach, and the university would be wise to continue to support him. As the saying goes, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a successful basketball program. With Hurley at the helm, the future looks bright for Arizona State basketball.
