“I don’t wanna live with any regrets”: Tony Bennett lists down personal reasons for retiring
As the college basketball world deals with Tony Bennett's sudden exit from the circuit, the Hall of Fame coach has preplanned what he wants to focus on next. Taking the podium at the press conference on Friday, Bennett appeared to answer fans' concerns about his resignation.
He claimed that his role with Virginia was not permanent, as he would have someday passed it on to someone else. With that, Bennett turned the focus to his roles as a father, husband, son and mentor, which he now aims to fulfill with complete focus.
"To be a better husband, I love Laurel with all my heart and we're going to find out if you love me with all your heart because I'm going to be around a lot more," Bennett said. "To be a better dad to my daughter Anna and my son Eli.
"My parents are both 81 years old, and I don't want to live with any regrets. Just to be around them, to be a better friend, be a better brother.
"My sister, if she's watching, would be saying that to me. I look forward to the relationships with the former players and even the current ones, and the staff that you don't always get to have when you're grinding away." (1:42)
Tony Bennett leaves Virginia after leading the program for 15 years and cultivating a high standard for defensive schemes, recruiting success and player development. He led the Cavaliers to 10 NCAA Tournament appearances, two ACC Tournament titles, six ACC season titles and an NCAA championship.
He posted a 364-136 record with UVA, earning multiple ACC and National Coach of the Year awards.
Who will coach Virginia after Tony Bennett’s exit?
Virginia will be led by associate head coach Ron Sanchez, who was earlier announced as the Cavaliers’ interim head coach. Given that UVA plays its first game in less than three weeks, it is the best decision for the program. Moreover, Tony Bennett also vouched for Sanchez, who has been a part of his coaching staff for more than 10 years.
For now, Sanchez’s role will include maintaining a healthy locker room and retaining all of the Cavaliers’ players. In case a coach leaves a job, players have 30 days to enter the transfer portal. Even though programs are about to begin games officially, Virginia players can still redshirt their way out of the university.
Also Read: “Build a statue of him”: Virginia hoops fans give heartwarming reaction to Tony Bennett’s unexpected resignation ahead of NCAAB season