Bobby Hurley jolted the college basketball world today when he announced his support for prized pupil Remy Martin's decision to declare for the NBA Draft.
Almost everyone assumed Martin would be back for his senior season and as such culminate a tremendous Sun Devils career with a potential fourth tournament appearance in his fourth year and along the way likely go down as the greatest Sun Devils player of all time.
But at least for now that does not appear to be the case.
Remy Martin is off to the NBA. Sure, he could change his mind but unlike other college blue chippers, Remy has never been a projected lottery pick and is making this decision knowing his fate is likely the second round or the undrafted route.
Martin has been a sensational, throw back player for Arizona State. His leadership, energy and spirit have been the driving force behind ASU's resurgence over the last three seasons. His infectious enthusiasm has been the perfect ying to Bobby Hurley's yang of relentless intensity.
While his shot selection can be poor and his three point shot can be streaky, he's a difference maker.
He'll find a place in the NBA as a perfect backup point guard.
The bigger question is does Bobby Hurley follow him out the door?
It would make sense. Hurley reportedly flirted with St. Johns last offseason and despite the abrupt conclusion to the college basketball season, there will be jobs open this offseason.
It's not just Martin that Hurley is losing. Rob Edwards is gone. Khalid Thomas also declared his intention to transfer.
Add in the complete stagnation of the development of Kimani Lawrence and Taeshon Cherry and ASU is now basically starting from scratch next season.
Does Bobby Hurley really want to start pushing that boulder up this mountain again?
Oh, and there's the reported incidents of sexual harassment against his wife that the athletic department reportedly dragged their feet on before finally taking action.
Its a drastic chance of trajectory for ASU. Next year could've been the year Sun Devil fans have been waiting for their entire lives. A relatively loaded roster led by a potential NCAA Player of the Year candidate in a down conference with three years of momentum behind them. Toss in the downswing of Arizona basketball under a beleaguered Sean Miller and the timing was very favorable for ASU.
Now, Remy Martin is gone and Bobby Hurley might be wise to follow.
The wait continues for Arizona State basketball