Washington State's head coach Tony Bennett is hired by Virginia
Why
Washington State men's basketball coach Tony Bennett will be named the new coach at the University of Virginia. Bennett told WSU president Elson S. Floyd and athletic director Jim Sterk this afternoon that he has taken the job. Later, Bennett told his players of his decision. Sterk said Virginia asked for permission to speak to Bennett on Friday. "Dick and Tony Bennett have elevated the men's basketball program at Washington State to an unprecedented level of success," Sterk said. "We will begin a national search for a coach immediately with the goal of finding someone with the integrity, experience, and values that Dick and Tony brought to the program." Dick Bennett was hired as WSU's coach in 2003, and after three seasons his son, Tony, was elevated from assistant coach to the head-coaching spot. Dave Leitao resigned at Virginia two weeks ago after a 10-18 season, the Cavaliers' worst in more than 40 years. Leitao had coached at Virginia for four seasons. Bennett was a hot item a year ago after taking the Cougars to a second straight NCAA tournament. He turned down a chance to go to Indiana, and also rebuffed advances from Marquette and LSU. This year, the Cougars fell back to a 17-16 overall record and a one-game appearance in the NIT. Washington State coach Tony Bennett has been hired as Virginia's men's basketball coach. Washington State athletic director Jim Sterk announced the move Monday evening. He said Virginia asked for permission to speak with Bennett on Friday. Bennett replaces Dave Leitao, who resigned after four seasons. The 39-year-old Bennett posted a 68-30 record in three seasons with the Cougars. His first two teams made the NCAA tournament. This year's squad was eliminated in the first round of the NIT. Bennett was the AP college basketball coach of the year in 2007.
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References:
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/sports/2008950172_bennett31.html,http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5h8kEkJ8yOxVEO7aotfwN0wQrL3KQD978LBB80,http://www.examiner.com/x-784-Washington-State-Cougars-Examiner~y2009m3d17-St-Marys-runs-over-Washington-State-6857-in-NIT-opener,http://www.thenewstribune.com/sports/colleges/story/672830.html
