Virginia men’s basketball coach Tony BennettThe decision to retire from coaching caused shock waves in the coaching ranks.
On Thursday, news broke that Bennett was walking away just a few weeks before the start of the season. It’s unclear exactly what may have prompted the longtime coach’s departure, and supporters and fans potentially won’t get a glimpse of those answers until a scheduled press conference. This stunning decision leaves Virginia in a bind, and the school will have its hands full trying to find a replacement with such a short lead time.
Nonetheless, as people tried to figure out what was going on, another coach, who also experienced a shocking retirement, Jay Wrightpraised Bennett, saying, “Tony is one of the most talented and toughest coaches we have ever faced. We have always respected him and his teams at the highest level.”
Tony is one of the most talented and toughest coaches we have ever gone up against. We have always respected him and his teams at the highest level. A classy guy –
Inspiring – witty and an incredible competitor!! @UVAMensHoops https://t.co/aSgZxGFfAD-Jay Wright (@CoachJayWright) October 17, 2024
Wright wasn’t the only coach thinking about Bennett. St. John’s head coach Rick Pitino and several others also reacted to the news.
Here’s what they said:
If the news is true, college basketball just lost a man with incredible class, humility and dignity. Tony Bennett is a wonderful teacher of our game. We will miss you very much!
-Rick Pitino (@RealPitino) October 17, 2024
No more college basketball!
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This article was originally published on For The Win: Jay Wright and other college basketball coaches react to Tony Bennett’s shocking retirement
