Bennett explains sudden retirement: College game 'not in a healthy spot'
Departing Virginia head coach Tony Bennett cited the NCAA's overhaul of student-athlete compensation as a significant factor in his decision to retire from coaching.
"I think it's right for student-athletes to receive revenue," Bennett said Friday at a press conference, courtesy of Nicole Auerbach of NBC Sports. "Please don't mistake me, I do. But the game and college athletics are not in a healthy spot.
"There needs to be change. ... It's going to be closer to a professional model."
The 55-year-old confirmed that longtime Cavaliers assistant Ron Sanchez will replace him as Virginia's new head coach.
Coach Tony Bennett let slip that Ron Sanchez will lead the @UVAMensHoops program this season. pic.twitter.com/lxhemkOKxw
— CC (@ChasCocke) October 18, 2024
Bennett described himself Friday as a "square peg in a round hole" amid the rapidly changing college athletics landscape, according to The Athletic's Grace Raynor. Following a three-year stint at Washington State to open his career, he steered Virginia to a 364-136 record and 10 NCAA Tournament berths over 15 seasons but admitted to difficulties adjusting to new hindrances in his role, such as dealing with player agents.
"Will I miss the game? Do I love the game? Absolutely. But I don't think I'm equipped in this new way to coach, and it's a disservice if you keep doing that," he said, per Raynor.
"I'm very sure that this is the right step. I wish I could've gone longer, I really do. But it was time."
Bennett steps away as a two-time Associated Press Coach of the Year. He won six regular-season championships, two ACC Tournaments, and led the Cavaliers to the national title in 2019.