TEMPE, Ariz. -- Arizona State has evolved greatly as an institution since 2002—an observation not up for much debate. Why is 2002 significant? May 7, 2026; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils school president Dr. Michael Crow addresses attendees of the Randy Bennett introductory press conference at the Weatherup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images It was the year that Michael M. Crow was officially named the president of the university. The last 24 years have been a mixed bag athletically, but the results on the academic side of the equation have been significant for the growth of those very athletic programs. Arizona State on SI discusses why Crow's changed tune on the "revenue" sports is massive for the university's future below. May 7, 2026; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils school president Dr. Michael Crow and mascot Sparky during an introductory press conference at the Weatherup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J.…