By Greg Madia
Charlottesville Daily Progress
Following the announcement of Tony Bennett’s retirement after an impressive 15-year tenure as Virginia men’s basketball head coach, the reins of the team are ready to be handed over to his trusted confidante. As Bennett spoke at the John Paul Jones Arena, he expressed his hope for a smooth transition, saying: “I always wanted this role to be succeeded by someone on my staff. It was my vision from the beginning.” Bennett, who led the Cavaliers to national glory in 2019, revealed that assistant coach Ron Sanchez will serve as interim coach for the upcoming season.
“They’re facing a tough schedule,” Bennett said of the Cavaliers, who prepare for their season opener against Campbell at home on Nov. 6. “However, with proper leadership under Coach Sanchez, I believe they have the potential to shine. This staff is ready to guide this talented roster effectively.”
Sanchez, who dedicated 13 seasons to Bennett, joined Bennett during his coaching years at Washington State and followed him to UVa when Bennett took the reins of the program about 15 years ago. After a successful stint in Charlotte, where he led the 49ers to 16-plus wins in three of his five seasons and won the 2023 CBI championship in his final game, Sanchez is ready to bring that experience back to Virginia.
His credentials speak for themselves, having appeared in nine NCAA tournaments—seven with the Cavaliers and two with Washington State—during his illustrious coaching career. Sanchez’s coaching roots date back to his alma mater, SUNY Oneonta, before he jumped into major college basketball with a volunteer assistant role at Indiana, where he earned his master’s degree. His connection with Bennett was fortuitous; his wife Tara once played for Bennett’s sister Kathi, which further strengthened their lasting professional relationship.
“Ron has been a loyal ally throughout my career,” Bennett reflected on Sanchez’s journey. “He has matured considerably in his understanding of the game, and I look forward to seeing what he will accomplish in taking on this new challenge.”
This new chapter for the Cavaliers is not limited to continuity; it’s about potential as Sanchez takes the reins and guides Virginia into a challenging yet promising season ahead.
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