ABC News: In a Powerful Statement, Head Coach Kenny Dillingham Reaffirms Loyalty to Arizona State— “I Am Not Leaving, Money Is Not Everything”
Tempe, Arizona – In the face of rising speculation and outside interest, Arizona State Sun Devils Head Coach Kenny Dillingham sent a clear message to the college football world on Thursday: he is not going anywhere.
“I will not leave. “Money is not everything,” Dillingham stated confidently during a press conference at Sun Devil Stadium. “I came here to build something special, and I’m staying to finish what we’ve started.”
The 34-year-old head coach, one of college football’s youngest and most energetic leaders, has been the focus of national attention since reports surfaced that many high-profile organizations, both collegiate and professional, were interested in hiring him. But Dillingham made it clearly obvious that his heart, mission, and destiny are firmly planted in Tempe.
A Hometown Mission
“This isn’t just a job for me—it’s personal,” Dillingham remarked. I grew up here. I wandered the corridors and sat in the classrooms. I understand what Sun Devil pride implies and what it may become. Walking away from it would mean leaving my roots.
A cultural overhaul
Dillingham, a Phoenix native and Arizona State alum, takes over the Sun Devils football program in 2022 with a thorough understanding of what ASU football means to the state and community. His tenure has been distinguished by an unwavering emphasis on culture-building, player development, and reviving excitement in a program that has long sought consistency and pride.
Since his appointment, Dillingham has made great achievements in rejuvenating the program. Despite a tough first season fraught with injuries and transition challenges, he has revitalized recruiting, emphasized player accountability, and received accolades for his open, player-first leadership approach.
Under his leadership, Arizona State has began constructing one of its most impressive recruiting classes in recent memory. His dedication to developing local talent and investing in young players has helped redefine the program’s identity.
“Our vision is long-term,” he explained. “We’re establishing the groundwork—not just for victories, but also for how we win. “With integrity, toughness, and discipline.”
Turning Down the Temptation
Multiple sources verified that Dillingham was approached by representatives from both the SEC and the Big Ten teams, who offered multi-million dollar deals and long-term security. Nonetheless, Dillingham held firm in his values.
“It’s easy to chase dollar signs,” he told me. “But my loyalty is to these players, to this university, and to this community that believed in me when it mattered most.”
Message received
Sun Devils Athletic Director Ray Anderson praised Dillingham’s remarks, describing him as “a generational leader with a commitment to excellence beyond wins and losses.”
Fans and alumni instantly filled social media with appreciation, using the hashtag #RideWithKenny as a show of solidarity.
Dillingham concluded the news conference with a last message for ASU fans:
“This program will shine. It may take time, but we will get there—together. I’m proud to be your coach, and I’m remaining at home.”
In a world of continual change, Kenny Dillingham’s words and actions are a rare example of steadfast loyalty—and Sun Devil Nation wouldn’t have it otherwise.