Coach Bennett declares his retirement during a tearful Charlottesville press conference

Charlottesville, Virginia – Tony Bennett, the head basketball coach for the University of Virginia men, made his retirement known on Friday, October 18.

Less than three weeks before the men’s basketball season began, and only a few months after he inked a contract extension, the news was released. He claimed he just came to the conclusion he wasn’t the proper coach to lead the program at this time during an emotional 30-minute news conference at the John Paul Jones Arena.

“And as the head coach, I’ve been here for 15 years. To be honest, I expected it would be a little longer, but that was a loan. Bennett informed reporters, “It wasn’t mine to keep.” “It’s time for me to take over this role, which has been on loan.” It’s time for me to return it.

Bennett stated that it’s time to give it back in order to obtain what he can never lose: the chance to improve as a friend, spouse, and parent.

In front of his family, teammates, and coaches, Bennett expressed his gratitude for the chance to create a program capable of competing with the elite college basketball teams.

“And what took place? Bennett remarked, “I hoped that was probably above my wildest expectations—I didn’t know. “It’s all part of it—winning the national championship, making it to the elite eight and sweet sixteen, winning two tournament championships, and taking home six ACC regular-season titles. I wouldn’t exchange it for anything at all.

He agreed that the current state of collegiate basketball, with players striking over name, image, and likeness arrangements and a transfer portal that facilitates player transfers, played a significant role in the decision.

“I believe that players and student-athletes should be paid. Don’t misunderstand me, please. Bennett remarked, “I do believe it is.” However, neither the sport nor collegiate athletics are in good standing. It isn’t, and something has to change.

Bennett described UVA as a “place that will not compromise, and will do it the right way.” “And I wish it could be me, but it’s not possible. You have to give it away when you know deep down that the time has come.”

Both current and former UVA basketball players expressed astonishment at Bennett’s decision, but they also expressed support for it.

“It was pure joy, so I’m happy I reacted the way I did,” NBA star and former UVA standout Kyle Guy said. “Dude, I’m with you if that’s what you want to do.” He has dedicated his entire being to this program, and now we will endeavor to pay tribute to him and his memory, uphold the standards he established, and give it our all each and every day.

While UVA searches throughout the country for a permanent replacement, Associate Head Coach Ron Sanchez will assume leadership as the interim head coach.

Bennett stated that, albeit from a different angle, he intends to stay involved with the program and continue to cherish his relationships with the UVA community, coaches, and players.