ASU wins Big 12 Commissioner’s Cup in inaugural season

Sun Devil Athletics honored for excellence in sports, academics, and community impact.

PUBLISHED 4 HOURS AGO

ASU athletic director Graham Rossini and Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark at Big 12 Football Media Day Tuesday in Dallas. (Charlie Leight/ASU)

DALLAS, TEXAS: Arizona State University's first year in the Big 12 Conference has resulted in its winning the 2025 Commissioner’s Cup—an award recognizing the top overall athletic department based on athletic performance, academic success, and community engagement.

The announcement was made Tuesday, July 8, at Big 12 Football Media Day in Dallas by Commissioner Brett Yormark. “Congratulations to ASU President Michael Crow, Athletic Director Graham Rossini, and the entire Sun Devil community,” Yormark said. “This award reflects a well-rounded program with strong values and consistent results.”

Four ASU teams—football, men’s and women’s swimming, and volleyball—won Big 12 championships. Four more teams, including beach volleyball, lacrosse, and men’s and women’s golf, finished as runners-up.

“This is a great validation that we’re on our way,” said Rossini. “To earn this recognition in year one is a testament to our coaches, student-athletes, and the community that supports us.”

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Rossini credited the adaptability of ASU coaches in navigating the evolving landscape of college sports, particularly in the age of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). “They’ve met these challenges with confidence and purpose,” he said.

Academically, ASU athletes posted a spring 2025 average GPA of 3.37, with nearly half making the Dean’s List and 135 earning a perfect 4.0. Twelve teams recorded a Graduation Success Rate (GSR) of 100 percent.

Community service and career development were also integral to ASU’s winning formula. Programs like Sparky’s Tours in elementary schools, career fairs with real-time employer feedback, and mental health initiatives helped ASU stand out.

Rossini praised the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and coaches for driving outreach efforts. “It’s important that we teach the value of giving back to the same community that supports us,” he said.

Rossini hopes the award will energize Sun Devil fans even more. “Our fans have helped fuel our momentum,” he said. “Their energy and passion continue to drive our success on and off the field.”