Hall of Fame college basketball coach Bob Huggins has a progressive cognitive condition that "has begun to affect his memory and aspects of his daily life," his family said in a joint statement released by the University of Cincinnati on Wednesday. Huggins, 73, won 935 career games and coached in 26 NCAA tournaments and two Final Fours during stints at Walsh (then-NAIA), Akron, Cincinnati, Kansas State and West Virginia. He is to be inducted into the University of Cincinnati Athletics Hall of Fame on Friday night.
"Although Bob and his family recognize the challenges that lie ahead, they remain focused on the relationships, experiences and moments that bring him joy," the statement said. "The family respectfully asks for privacy, compassion and understanding as they navigate this next chapter together."
The family said they had chosen to keep the matter private over the past few months but decided to share the news before Huggins' induction. Huggins is the winningest coach in Bearcats basketball history with 399 wins from 1989 to 2005, making 14 consecutive NCAA tournament appearances. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2022.
"Bob is deeply grateful for the tremendous honor being bestowed upon him by the University of Cincinnati," his family said. "His years leading the Bearcats represent an unforgettable chapter in his life, filled with cherished relationships, remarkable accomplishments, and memories that will always hold a special place in his heart." Former Huggins pupil Jerrod Calhoun was named Cincinnati's coach in March.
Huggins' career has also included off-court controversies. In May 2023, he used an anti-gay slur to refer to Xavier fans while denigrating Catholics, leading to a three-game suspension, a $1 million salary reduction and required sensitivity training. In June 2023, he was arrested on suspicion of drunken driving in Pittsburgh and resigned the next day.
Source: ESPN General · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing