Longtime Virginia basketball coach Tony Bennett announced his retirement on Thursday in a very unexpected move.
This was first reported by Jeff Goodman and Field of 68 on X.
Bennett, who took over as the head coach of Virginia basketball in 2009, had guided the Cavaliers to 10 NCAA Tournaments, including a National Championship win in 2019.
His “Pack Line” defense was a trademark for Virginia teams, turning the Cavs into a perennial defensive powerhouse. Bennett’s teams finished in the top 10 in the fewest points per game allowed thirteen straight times including last season.
Bennett retires as one of the winningest coaches in college basketball history, with 433. His .7193 winning percentage ranks 47th all-time.
No reason has been given for Bennett’s decision, but we will update you as more information comes along.
Virginia basketball plans to have a press conference on Friday at 11 a.m. to discuss the situation further.