4 replacements for Tony Bennett after the Virginia head coach unexpectedly retired

Virginia men’s basketball head coach Tony Bennett is expected to retire.

This is unexpected news for the program, especially occurring so close to the start of the upcoming season. There is still a lot to learn about this decision, and fans will likely get more details at Bennett’s press conference on Friday morning.

But no matter the reason, Virginia still needs a head coach on the sidelines for the 2024-25 campaign. One would assume that the hire would come from their internal staff based on familiarity with the roster and system, so here are a few names they will likely consider.

One of these names will likely become the interim head coach. Then after the season, depending on how it goes, perhaps they get promoted to have the gig on a full-time level.

Ron Sanchez

Current:

Associate head coach, Virginia (2023 – Present)

Past: 

Head coach, Charlotte (2018 – 2023)

Assistant coach, Virginia (2009 – 2018)

Assistant coach, Washington State (2003 – 2009)

Assistant coach, Indiana (2001 – 2003)

Assistant coach, SUNY Delhi (1999 – 2001)

Assistant coach, SUNY Oneonta (1996 – 1999)

Jason Williford

Current:

Associate head coach, Virginia

Past: 

Assistant head coach, Virginia

Assistant coach, American University

Assistant coach, Boston University

Assistant coach, John Marshall High School

Professional basketball player

UVA collegiate basketball player and captain

Brad Soderberg

Current: 

Scouting, Virginia (2021 – Present)

Past: 

Assistant coach, Virginia (2015 – 2021)

Head coach, Lindenwood (2009 – 2015)

Head coach, Saint Louis (2002 – 2007)

Assistant coach, Saint Louis (2001 – 2002)

Interim coach, Wisconsin (2000 – 2001)

Assistant coach, Wisconsin (1995 – 2000)

Head coach, South Dakota State (1993 – 1995)

Head coach, Loras (1988 – 1993)

Assistant coach, Loras (1987 – 1988)

Assistant coach, Fort Hays State (1986 – 1987)

Graduate assistant, Colorado State (1985 – 1986)

Assistant coach, Wisconsin–Stevens Point (1984-1985)

Ritchie McKay

Current: 

Head coach, Liberty (2015 – Present)

Past: 

Associate head coach, Virginia (2009 – 2015)

Head coach, Liberty (2007 – 2009)

Head coach, New Mexico (2002 – 2007)

Head coach, Oregon State (2000 – 2002)

Head coach, Colorado State (1998 – 2000)

Head coach, Portland State (1996 – 1998)

Assistant coach, Washington (1993 – 1995)

Assistant coach, Bradley (1991 – 1993)

Assistant coach, Seattle Pacific (1990 – 1991)

Assistant coach, Queens (1989 – 1990)

Assistant coach, Washington (1988 – 1989)

Player, Seattle Pacific (1983 – 1987)