Coach David Patrick’s deep ties to Australian basketball help the Sun Devils’ Aussie contingent feel right at home in Tempe.
Family is key to success
While Arizona State is only beginning to establish its identity under Bennett, the Australians already have a head start on building the relationships and trust that can shape a winning culture.
"He's like my brother," Vaughns said of Nyuon. "When I got to the Center of Excellence, he was the first person ever to say anything to me, so he's been my best friend this whole time. We've always been really close."
While Vaughns was already committed to Arizona State, convincing his longtime friend to join him wasn't hard.
"He was deciding between a few schools, and I was telling him, obviously, we have DP (David Patrick) here, we have Randy Bennett, who's coached a lot of Australians. You'd be putting yourself in the best position to get better. We've always seen who's come through Randy Bennett's program. I said weigh your options, but at the end of the day, it's your decision. But make the decision that's best for you and the best environment you're going to be in."
Having spent the last season at LSU as the team's only Australian, aside from Coach Patrick, Vaughns offered what might have been his most valuable advice to Nyuon.
"Obviously, having Australians around you will make college a lot easier. Trust me, I know I learned that very quickly."
Foxwell agrees - whether that's talking about the AFL or the comforts of home.
"Being around guys who kind of grew up in the same area, grew up in the same country and speak the same language, obviously we all speak English, but just to slang in the different words we use, it definitely makes it easier to settle in, and the culture shock isn't as bad."
"I've been really fortunate to have two places where I'll be able to go, and there's been Australians and be able to be myself."
"It was a huge get for our staff to land a talented player like Marcus. He was excited about the success Australians have had in our program, and he wants to be the next one to thrive" said Bennett of Vaughns.
Ready for the 2026-27 season
There is a lot of excitement surrounding the new era of Sun Devil Basketball, and not just from the fans.
Nyuon is excited to be on the big stage.
"It's not often that people out of Canberra go do big things like this," Nyuon said. "I'm from a small pond, so I feel excited just to be able to take everything in, and just really enjoy it and see what we can do."
Foxwell is ready to take advantage of the opportunity ahead.
"Playing in what I think is one of the best college conferences in the country, the experience is going to be something I'll never forget. It's everything that I've dreamed of, and I'm grateful for everything that's coming my way and the staff and all the materials around me."
Meanwhile, Vaughns is antsy to get on the court.
"All I want to do is compete," he said. "I just want to get out there and enjoy the game on the floor with my guys and win."
