Virginia Coach Tony Bennett, 2019 National Champion, Announces Immediate Retirement Before Season

Oct 17, 2024, 08:40 PM

Virginia men's basketball coach Tony Bennett has announced his immediate retirement, effective immediately, the university confirmed. A press conference is scheduled for Friday at 11 a.m. to formally address the decision. Bennett, 55, led the Cavaliers to the 2019 NCAA National Championship and is the program's all-time wins leader with a record of 364–136 over 15 seasons. He has accumulated 433 career wins over an 18-year coaching career, including previous tenure at Washington State University. A two-time Naismith Coach of the Year and four-time ACC Coach of the Year, Bennett is regarded as one of the most respected coaches in college basketball. His sudden departure less than three weeks before the start of the season leaves the program without its long-time leader. The retirement opens a 30-day transfer portal window for Virginia players, potentially impacting the team's roster ahead of the upcoming season. The university stated there are no health issues involved in Bennett's decision.