**Tony Bennett Announces Retirement After 15 Seasons with University of Virginia**

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. - Tony Bennett, the Dean and Markel Families Men's Head Basketball Coach at the University of Virginia, has announced that he will be retiring after 15 remarkable seasons. Bennett will officially make the announcement during a press conference at John Paul Jones Arena on Friday, Oct. 18 at 11 a.m.

During his tenure at Virginia, Bennett compiled an impressive 364-136 record. He led the Cavaliers to a historic 2019 NCAA Championship victory, along with two ACC Tournament titles and six ACC regular-season championships. Under his leadership, the Cavaliers made 10 NCAA tournament appearances, solidifying his reputation as a transformative coach for the program.

Bennett’s excellence did not go unrecognized; he was named ACC Coach of the Year four times—in 2014, 2015, 2018, and 2019. Over his entire coaching career, which spans 18 seasons, including a stint at Washington State from 2007-2009, Bennett accumulated a 433-169 overall record. At Washington State, he achieved a 69-33 record and guided the team to two NCAA tournament appearances.

Fans will have the opportunity to watch Bennett's retirement press conference live on Facebook, allowing many to join in commemorating his illustrious career.