Fired Arizona State coach Herb Sendek says winning 'takes a community'

Former Arizona State basketball coach Herb Sendek says ' It takes a community to win in sports these days.'

Sendek made the comment in an open letter he wrote to Arizona State fans that was published Thursday by the Arizona Republic newspaper. He was fired nine days ago after nine seasons in Tempe and just two NCAA tournament appearances.

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Based on the tone of the letter and other comments within it, Sendek didn't come off as bitter about the school's decision. He indicated he was able to build a community around his program during his tenure, in which he went  159-137. The Sun Devils were eliminated from the second round of the NIT in March by Richmond.

Arizona State officials are reportedly in talks with Duke associate head coach Jeff Capel to replace Sendek. Capel has previously served as head coach at Virginia Commonwealth and Oklahoma. Here is the entire Sendek letter from the

We stand together proud that our players have met the most critical standard we asked of them -- to be respectful young men, qualified to earn their way in the world. Along the way, our young men also managed to have some terrific accomplishments on the court, as well. These young men, and our assistant coaches, who helped me find and teach them, are like family to me.

Given all the conversation about recruiting, I would ask that you don't let your disappointment in me take away from or be a reflection on the talent of the young men that are currently on my team.

Given the progress we made with this relatively new group of players, they proved they are talented enough to win in the Pac-12. They also personify the personal character of the individual student-athlete that reflects so positively on the amazing trajectory Dr. Crow has this great institution traveling.

I wish ASU Basketball and your next head coach nothing but success going forward. It takes a community to win in sports today. Thank you to those who helped me build a community during my time here. It is my hope that you will continue your efforts to build the depth and breadth of that community support and help your next coach reach the expectations we all have for this program.

Thank you and Go Devils!

Herb Sendek

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[Kyle Ringo is the assistant editor of The Dagger on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at kyle.ringo@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter! Follow @KyleRingo