Mickey McConnell has been appointed the head men鈥檚 basketball coach at Saint Mary鈥檚 College, following his successful tenure as associate head coach and former standout player. He takes over from Randy Bennett, who coached the team for 25 seasons before moving to Arizona State. McConnell, who has led the program to five consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, affirmed his commitment to continuing the team's legacy while embarking on a new chapter. Athletic Vice President Mike Matoso emphasized McConnell's long-standing fit for the role, acknowledging the support for him to succeed.

By the Numbers
  • McConnell's teams have a 175-54 record (.764) since 2019.
  • He helped the Gaels achieve five consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances as a single-digit seed.
State of Play
  • McConnell is transitioning to head coach after Randy Bennett's departure.
  • The program has a strong foundation with ongoing support for success and resources.
What's Next

McConnell's immediate challenge will be to maintain the program鈥檚 competitive stature in the NCAA while establishing his own coaching philosophy. Recruiting efforts and player development will be crucial as he aims to build on Bennett鈥檚 legacy.

Bottom Line

McConnell's promotion marks a strategic move for Saint Mary鈥檚, ensuring continuity in a successful basketball program while embracing a fresh vision. His background as a player and coach suggests he is well-equipped to lead the team into a promising future.